Wilde was challenged for reelection by a number of experienced local politicians including former city council member A.P.

[1] In the campaign, Wilde was accused of being an ineffective mayor, attending less than half of the meetings of Council, and allowing immoral behavior to thrive in San Diego.

Wilde contested the allegations claiming that he had been unable to enact his preferred policies due to resistance from the Common Council.

Johnson, head of the Southern Title Guaranty Company, attempted to run a "smokestack" industrial development campaign similar to what had worked for Wilde in the 1917 election.

[3] On March 25, 1919, Wilde received the highest number of votes in the primary election, followed by Johnson.