With little opposition , Cleveland won re-nomination at the 1888 Democratic National Convention , making him the first Democratic president to win re-nomination since Martin Van Buren in 1840 . Vice President Hendricks having died in 1885 , the Democrats chose Allen G. Thurman of Ohio to be Cleveland 's new running mate . Former Senator Benjamin Harrison of Indiana defeated John Sherman and several other candidates to win the presidential nomination of the 1888 Republican National Convention . The Republicans campaigned heavily on the tariff issue , turning out protectionist voters in the important industrial states of the North . Democrats in the crucial swing state of New York were divided over the gubernatorial candidacy of David B. Hill , weakening Cleveland 's support . The Republicans gained the upper hand in the campaign , as Cleveland 's campaign was poorly managed by Calvin S. Brice and William H. Barnum , whereas Harrison had engaged more aggressive fundraisers and tacticians in Matt Quay and John Wanamaker . The Cleveland campaign was further damaged by the desertion of many Mugwumps , who were disappointed by the lack of far-reaching civil service reforms
1888 Republican National Convention
1888 Republican National Convention
Presidencies of Grover Cleveland