Exploring how law and elections intersect in 1877
This concise study examines how electoral practices, constitutional rules, and case law shape who can be an elector and how votes are counted. It focuses on the arguments surrounding ineligibility, nominating conventions, and the duties of electors under the law.
The author compares British and American methods of voting, discusses the responsibilities of nominating bodies, and argues that votes cast for ineligible electors are effectively null. The text blends historical context with a detailed legal reasoning about the power and limits of election officials, and the role of state constitutions in safeguarding the franchise.
- Understand how eligibility and disqualification claims affect electoral outcomes
- Learn how nominating conventions function as agents of parties in the election process
- See how constitutional provisions shape voting rights and duties
- Appreciate the balance between ministerial canvassing of votes and judicial review of legality
Ideal for readers of historical law, constitutional history, and the intricate mechanics of U.S. elections.