The 1978 Texas State Treasurer election was held on November 7, 1978, to elect the Texas State Treasurer. The primary election was held on May 6, 1978. Democratic incumbent Warren Harding won a contested primary narrowly avoiding a runoff election against former Texas A&M quarterback Harry Ledbetter. At the time Texas, like other Southern States, was dominated by the Democratic party and winning the primary was tantamount to winning the general election. Following this pattern, Harding went on to win the general election facing only minor opposition.
Democratic primary
Background The long-time incumbent of the office, Jesse James, passed away in 1977, after having served as State Treasurer for almost 36 years. Governor Dolph Briscoe appointed the Treasurer of Dallas County Warren G. Harding, no relation to the President of the same name, to fill the vacancy. Harding had previously run for the seat before in 1956, but had lost the primary to James.
Candidates
Warren Glenn Harding, incumbent Treasurer Harry Ledbetter, former Texas A&M quarterback C. R. "Charlie" Sanderson
Results
General election Results
References