Richard Manning III Democratic Richard Manning III Democratic The 1916 South Carolina gubernatorial election was held on November 7, 1916, to select the governor of the state of South Carolina.

The progressive reforms initiated by Governor Manning alarmed many of the textile owners who threw their support to Cooper.

Senator Ben Tillman openly supported the re-election of Governor Manning.

The results of the primary on August 29 had Blease in first place, but just short of a majority necessary to avoid a runoff election.

The general election was held on November 7, 1916, and Richard Irvine Manning III was re-elected governor of South Carolina without opposition.