1849 Indiana gubernatorial election

The 1849 Indiana gubernatorial election was held on August 6, 1849.

This was the last election held in August, and the last election for a three-year term, until a new state constitution came into effect in 1851.

Incumbent Democratic Governor James Whitcomb was term-limited, and could not seek a third consecutive term.

Democratic nominee Joseph A. Wright defeated Whig nominee John A. Matson and Free Soil nominee James H. Cravens with 52.27% of the vote.

Following the election, on December 26, 1848, Whitcomb resigned, having been elected to the United States Senate. Lieutenant Governor Paris C. Dunning acted as governor for the remainder of the unexpired term.

Candidates

 * James H. Cravens, Free Soil, former U.S. Representative
 * John A. Matson, Whig, attorney, former member of the Indiana House of Representatives, unsuccessful candidate for Indiana's 3rd congressional district in 1843
 * Joseph A. Wright, Democrat, former U.S. Representative