John A. Burns Democratic John A. Burns Democratic The 1970 Hawaii gubernatorial election was Hawaii's fourth gubernatorial election.

The election was held on November 3, 1970, and resulted in a victory for the Democratic candidate, incumbent Governor of Hawaii John A. Burns over Republican candidate, Judge Samuel Pailthorpe King.

Burns received more votes than King in every county in the state.

George Ariyoshi took the role of acting governor from October 26, 1973 until the end of this term on December 2, 1974.

[2][3] As of 2022[update], this was the most recent Hawaii gubernatorial election in which both candidates are now deceased.