1914 Texas gubernatorial election

The 1914 Texas gubernatorial election was held on November 3, 1914, in order to elect the Governor of Texas. James E. Ferguson, nominated by the Democratic Party, easily defeated his two general election opponents, E.R. Meitzen of the Socialist Party and John W. Philip of the Republican Party.

Democratic primary

Candidates

Thomas H. Ball, attorney and former U.S. Representative from Houston
James Ferguson, banker and former city attorney of Belton

In the early 20th century, Texas was a prohibitively Democratic-controlled state, making a successful in any statewide primary akin to victory. Anti-prohibitionist and devout white supremacist James E. Ferguson defeated Thomas Henry Ball, a supporter of prohibition who had received the endorsements of President Woodrow Wilson and William Jennings Bryan.

General election

Candidates

K. E. Choate
F. M. Etheridge
James Ferguson, banker and former city attorney of Belton
E. R. Meitzen
John W. Philip

Campaign

Ferguson faced token opposition from two candidates, Socialist E.R. Meitzen and Republican John W. Philip, along with a scattering of nominees from minor parties. As was typical of a Deep South state in this era, Ferguson won overwhelmingly, keeping the governor's mansion in Democratic hands.