The petition of Amy Dardin was called up, and after some opposition, on account of a former reference and decision, was referred to the Committee of Claims.
Thursday, February 13.
Military Interference in Elections.
Mr. Leib called up for consideration the following resolution, which he laid on the table on the 4th instant, viz:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to bring in a bill making provision for the removal of the regular troops of the United States which may be stationed where an election is held, and that such removal shall take place at least two days previous to such election, and to a distance not less than two miles.
Mr. Otis moved to amend the resolution by striking out the words in italic, in the second line, and inserting "inquire into the expediency of."
A long debate ensued on this motion, in which it was conceded, on all sides, that the resolution was too definite, and left nothing in the power of the committee to act on, except merely bringing in a bill conformable to it. If excesses had been committed by the military at elections, and they were guilty of improper interference, it seemed to be the wish of every member that some provision should be made to guard against them in future; but they were unwilling to say what that provision should be, until an inquiry were made into the facts stated. The removal of the troops to the distance mentioned, was also particularly objected to, as it might leave fortifications, arsenals, and military stores, for two or three days, entirely unprotected.
Mr. Leib at length withdrew his original proposition, and submitted the following, which was adopted without objection, viz:
"Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare and report a bill, containing such legislative provisions as may be judged expedient, either for removing any military force of the United States, from any place of holding elections, or for preventing their interference in such elections."
Mr. Marshall, Mr. Leib and Mr. Otis, were appointed the committee.