1982 Massachusetts gubernatorial election

The 1982 Massachusetts gubernatorial election was held on November 2, 1982. Michael Dukakis was elected to a second non-consecutive term. He beat Republican John W. Sears in the General election, after defeating Incumbent Governor Edward J. King in the Democratic primary.

This election notably saw the Dukakis-Kerry ticket for Governor and Lt. Governor, a gubernatorial ticket made up of the future 1988 and 2004 Democratic nominees for President of the United States, who both lost to Bush family members, George H.W. and George W. respectively. Republican candidate Andrew Card also went on to serve in key roles in both Bush administrations; as White House Deputy Chief of Staff, Transportation Secretary, and White House Chief of Staff.

Candidates

 * Michael Dukakis, former Governor
 * Edward J. King, incumbent Governor

Withdrew

 * Thomas P. O'Neill III, incumbent Lieutenant Governor

Campaign
Former Governor Michael Dukakis challenged incumbent Governor Edward J. King in a rematch of the 1978 Democratic primary. This time, Dukakis was victorious 53–47%.

Candidates

 * John Kerry, veteran and anti-war activist
 * Evelyn Murphy, Chair of the National Advisory Committee on Oceans and Atmosphere and former State Secretary of Economic Affairs
 * Lou Nickinello, State Representative from Natick
 * Lois Pines, former State Representative from Newton
 * Samuel Rotondi, State Senator from Winchester

Campaign
Incumbent Lt. Governor Thomas P. O'Neill III did not run for re-election. Former Navy Lieutenant and anti-war activist John Kerry won a five way contest for the Democratic nomination.

Candidates

 * Andrew Card, State Representative from Holbrook
 * John Lakian, businessman
 * John Winthrop Sears, former Suffolk County Sheriff and Boston City Councilman

Candidates

 * Leon Lombardi, State Representative from Easton

Results
Lombardi was unopposed for the Republican nomination.

Results
Michael Dukakis won the election with 57.9% of the vote, winning every county in the state - 13 with a majority, and 1 county (Barnstable) with a plurality.