The 1978 Ohio gubernatorial election was held on November 7, 1978. Incumbent Republican Jim Rhodes defeated Democratic nominee Dick Celeste with 49.31% of the vote.
Primary elections
Primary elections were held on June 6, 1978.
Democratic primary
Candidates
- Dick Celeste, incumbent Lieutenant Governor
- Dale R. Reusch
Republican primary
Candidates
- Jim Rhodes, incumbent Governor
- Charles Kurfess, State Representative
General election
Candidates
Major party candidates
- Jim Rhodes, Republican
- Dick Celeste, Democratic
Other candidates
- Patricia Wright, Independent
- John O'Neill, Independent
- Allan Friedman, Independent