The 1946 United States Senate special election in Idaho took place on November 5, 1946. After John Thomas died, governor Charles Gossett resigned to have his lieutenant governor, Arnold Williams, appoint him to the seat. However, Gossett lost the Democratic primary to George E. Donart, who then lost the general election to Henry Dworshak, the US representative from Idaho's 2nd congressional district.
Many people, including elected officials in Idaho, didn't like Charles Gossett's decision to basically appoint himself to the Senate, and didn't want him to be the nominee for the special election. Glen H. Taylor, Idaho's other Senator at the time, endorsed George E. Donart as a primary challenge against Gossett.
Primary elections Primary elections were held on June 11, 1946.
Democratic primary Candidates Charles Gossett, appointed incumbent U.S. Senator and former Governor of Idaho George E. Donart, member of the Idaho State Senate Paul L. Geddes
Results
Republican primary Candidates Henry Dworshak, U.S. Representative for Idaho's 2nd congressional district (1939-1946) Richard H. Wells Orrin E. Lee
Results
General election Results
See also 1946 United States Senate elections
References