1978 Iowa gubernatorial election

The 1978 Iowa gubernatorial election was held on November 7, 1978. Incumbent Republican Robert D. Ray defeated Democratic nominee Jerome D. Fitzgerald with 58.32% of the vote. , this was the last time Johnson County voted for the Republican candidate.

Primary elections
Primary elections were held on June 6, 1978.

Candidates

 * Jerome D. Fitzgerald, State Representative
 * Tom Whitney
 * Warren D. Strait

Candidates

 * Robert D. Ray, incumbent Governor
 * Donovan D. Nelson

Candidates
Major party candidates
 * Robert D. Ray, Republican
 * Jerome D. Fitzgerald, Democratic

Other candidates
 * John Ball, Libertarian
 * Joseph Grant, Socialist