1978 Oklahoma gubernatorial election

The 1978 Oklahoma gubernatorial election was held on November 7, 1978, to elect the next Governor of Oklahoma. Incumbent Democratic Governor David Boren chose not to run for re-election to a second term in office. Instead, Boren decided to run for the United States Senate. Former governor, and sitting lieutenant governor George Nigh was elected, defeating Republican nominee Ron Shotts.

Democratic primary
The primary elections took place on August 22, 1978.

Candidates

 * Larry Derryberry, state attorney general
 * Bob Funston
 * George Nigh, lieutenant governor, and former governor of Oklahoma

Runoff
The Runoff election took place on September 19, 1978.

Republican primary
The primary elections took place on August 22, 1978.

Candidates

 * Jim Head
 * Jerry L. Mash
 * Ron Shotts, former Oklahoma Sooners football player

Candidates

 * Billy Joe Clegg
 * Jim McCuiston
 * Floyd Shealy