The
temperance movement divided Rhode Island Republicans ahead of the 1875 state elections. Lippitt was nominated by the "regular" Republican organization, but faced opposition from supporters of the state's temperance law. Pro-temperance independent Republicans and members of the
Prohibition Party supported Hazard. On election day, Hazard received more votes than either of his rivals, but less than a majority. As stipulated by the Rhode Island Constitution, the election went to the General Assembly, which met on May 25 and elected Lippitt with 70 votes to 36 for Hazard.[2][3]