[1] The Democratic platform largely confined itself to a defense of the Cleveland administration, supporting reduction in the tariff and taxes generally as well as statehood for the western territories.

After Cleveland was re-nominated, Democrats had to choose a replacement for Thomas A. Hendricks, who had died in office on November 25, 1885.

Hendricks had run unsuccessfully as the Democratic nominee for vice-president in 1876, but had won the office when he ran again with Cleveland in 1884.

Former Senator Thurman of Ohio was nominated for vice-president over Indiana Governor Gray, his nearest rival, and John C. Black, who trailed behind.

Gray lost the nomination to Thurman primarily because his enemies brought up his actions while a Republican.