Republican governor William B. Washburn was re-elected to a second term in office over businessman Francis W. Bird, a Liberal Republican nominated with support of the Democratic Party.

[1] With an incumbent seeking re-election, the Republican convention was far less contentious than the open race of 1871.

[2] Nevertheless, supporters of Benjamin F. Butler placed his name in opposition to Washburn and a vote was taken.

A subsequent inquiry found that Butler's totals were inflated by "ballot-stuffing and other improper devices.

"[2] In the only other contested race, Thomas Talbot defeated Elijah B. Stoddard by 643 to 395 for lieutenant governor.