The state constitution was amended by the voters on November 4, 1980 to allow for the governor to serve a second consecutive four-year term.

Governor Richard Riley faced no opposition from South Carolina Democrats and avoided a primary election.

The South Carolina Republican Party held their primary for governor in the summer of 1982.

W. D. Workman, Jr. decisively defeated Roddy T. Martin and earned the right to face Riley in the general election.

Turnout decreased from the previous gubernatorial election because of the uncompetitive nature of the race.