At the Republican convention in Trenton on September 26, Franklin Murphy was nominated without opposition.[1] His name was presented by Senator Thomas N. McCarter of Essex and his nomination was seconded by George Record. A speech was given by John W. Griggs and much of the convention was devoted to mourning the death of President William McKinley less than two weeks prior.[1]
The Democratic convention was held in Trenton on October 1. Unlike the Republican convention, the nomination for Governor was hotly contested and required two ballots to resolved.