On the recordSeptember 15, 1858
There can be nothing in the words "support the Constitution," if you may run counter to it by refusing support to any right established under the Constitution.
Source
gutenberg.orgAbraham Lincoln: “There can be nothing in the words "support the Constitution," if you may run counter to it by refusing support to any…”
Editor's note · Context
From a debate with Stephen Douglas, Lincoln argues that supporting the Constitution means upholding all rights established under it, even those one dislikes.
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More from Abraham Lincoln
Apr 11, 1865
Unlike a case of war between independent nations, there is no organized organ for us to treat with,--no one man has authority to give up the rebellion for any other man.
Apr 11, 1865
Grant that he desires the elective franchise, will he not attain it sooner by saving the already advanced steps towards it, than by running backward over them?
Apr 11, 1865
I believe that it is not only possible, but in fact easier, to do this without deciding or even considering whether these States have ever been out of the Union, than with it.
Apr 10, 1865
I am considering, and shall not fail to act when satisfied that action will be proper.
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