In the 1946 Governor's race, Eugene Talmadge died before taking office. His death led to what became known as the Three Governors Controversy. How was the governorship eventually decided? Question 2 options: Ellis Arnall remained governor since he was the sitting governor. Herman Talmadge was declared governor because he was Eugene Talmadge's son. M.E. Thompson was elected as Lieutenant Governor and by the right of succession was declared governor. The Georgia Supreme Court ruled that Thompson was the official governor until a special election could be held.