 In the months leading up to the 1884 convention , Blaine was once more considered the favorite for the nomination , but President Arthur was contemplating a run for election in his own right . George Edmunds was again the favored candidate among reformers and John Sherman had a few delegates pledged to him , but neither was expected to command much support at the convention . John A. Logan of Illinois hoped to attract Stalwart votes if Arthur 's campaign was unsuccessful . Blaine was unsure he wanted to try for the nomination for the third time and even encouraged General William T. Sherman ( John Sherman 's older brother ) to accept it if it came to him , but ultimately Blaine agreed to be a candidate again . 
