1974 Wisconsin gubernatorial election
The 1974 Wisconsin gubernatorial election was held on November 5, 1974. Democrat Patrick Lucey won the election with 53% of the vote, winning his second term as Governor of Wisconsin and defeating Republican William Dyke.
As of 2025, this is the last time a Democratic gubernatorial candidate won Waukesha, Ozaukee and Washington counties. These three counties, collectively known as the WOW counties, have been among the most Republican areas in the state since the 1940s. It is also the last time a Democratic gubernatorial candidate carried Calumet and Marinette counties.
Primary election
The primary election was held on September 10, 1974. Nominees for governor and lieutenant governor were selected in separate primaries before running on a joint ticket in the general election.Democratic party
Governor
Candidates
- Edmond Hou-Seye, American party nominee for United States Senate in 1970
- Patrick J. Lucey, incumbent governor
Results
Lieutenant governor
Candidates
- Martin J. Schreiber, incumbent lieutenant governor
- Andrew Tripoli
Results
Republican party
Governor
Candidates
- William Dyke, former mayor of Madison
Results
Lieutenant Governor
Candidates
- John M. Alberts, member of Wisconsin State Assembly
Results
American party
Governor
Candidates
- William H. Upham
Results
Lieutenant Governor
Candidates
- Donald D. Hoeft
Results
General election
Candidates
- Patrick J. Lucey & Martin J. Schreiber, Democrat
- William Dyke & John M. Alberts, Republican
- William H. Upham & Donald D. Hoeft, American
- Crazy Jim & Gary C. Wetzel, Independent
- William O. Hart & Fred Dahir, Independent
- Fred B. Blair & Mary K. Blair, Independent
- Georgia Cozzini & David Hornung, Independent