1970 South Carolina gubernatorial election


The 1970 South Carolina gubernatorial election was held on November 3, 1970 to select the governor of the state of South Carolina. John Carl West, the Democratic nominee, won a close general election against Albert Watson, the Republican congressman from the 2nd congressional district.

Primaries

Both John Carl West and Albert Watson faced no opposition in their party's primaries which allowed both candidates to concentrate solely on the general election.

General election

The general election was held on November 3, 1970 and John Carl West was elected as the next governor of South Carolina. Turnout was even higher than the previous gubernatorial election because of the recent enfranchisement of black voters and the controversial candidacy of Albert Watson.