DEBATE OF OCTOBER 9, 1890.- BRIEF

FOR THE AFFIRMATIVE.- A. L.

BUMPUS AND J. L. DODGE.

Question: Resolved, That the pending Federai Election Bill should pass.

Best general references: Speech of H. C. Lodge in Congressional Record, p. 7053, 6,27, 1890. Lodge in N. Amer Reviews, Sept, 1890; Sen. W. E. Chandler, Aug. Forum.

I. The existing corruption of the ballot demands reform: Public Opinion June 21, 28. July 5, 12. Aug. 2, 16, 30; 1890. Congressional Record pp, 7040 and following:

a. The corruption is in defiance of the law and is defended by the opposes of the bill. H. Watterson, Boston Post September 27, 1890.

b. Justice and public sentiment demand a fair ballot and an honest count.

c. The pledges of the Republican Party remain unfulfilled in this respect. Repub Platform of 1888. World Almanac 1889, P. 53.

d. The responsibility of reform lies on the controlling party. Pubic Opinion, June 21.

A failure to legislate now continues the evil. P. O. July 12. St. L. Globe.

II. The pending bill is constitutional

a. Art. 1, Constitution Sec. 4, 1.

b. Decisions of Supreme Court. (100 U. S. 371), (110 U. S. 651), (12 Int. Rev; Rec. 151).

c. By constitutional writers: McCreary Elect. Laws p. 55; Von Holst p. 72 note; Pomeroy p. 1423; Story 627, 833.