The Writings of Albert Gallatin #255241

The subject was introduced upon the motion of Mr. Kelly; the following resolution being offered by him and referred to the consideration of a committee of the whole House. Resolved, That the elections held during the late insurrection in the counties of Westmoreland, Washington, Fayette, and Allegheny, for members to represent said counties in this House, were unconstitutional, and they are hereby declared void. Mr. Chairman — The proposition now before us divides itself into two distinct questions. Lst. Were the inhabitants of the four western counties in a state of insurrection on the second Tuesday of October last, the day of the general election 2d. Has the House a power to decide on the unconstitutionality of the election?