Louie Nunn Republican Wendell Ford Democratic The 1971 Kentucky gubernatorial election was held on November 2, 1971.

[2] In the general election, Ford and Emberton were joined by former Governor A.

"Happy" Chandler, running as an Independent, as well as American Party candidate William Smith.

The Republicans had hoped that Chandler would help Emberton's chances, but Ford ultimately won the general election.

[3] As of 2022[update], this is the last time that the Republican candidate has won Jefferson County.