The Records of the Federal Convention of 1787/Volume 3/Appendix A/CCXLVIII

by Max Farrand

ⅭⅭⅩⅬⅧ. Roger Sherman in the House of Representatives.^[1]

August 21, 1789.

[On motion] to add to the articles of amendment the following: “Congress shall not alter, modify; or interfere in the times, places, or manner of holding elections of Senators, or Representatives, except when any State shall refuse or neglect, or be unable, by invasion or rebellion, to make such election.” …

Mr. Sherman observed, that the Convention were very unanimous in passing this clause; that it was an important provision, and if it was resigned it would tend to subvert the Government.

1. Annals of Congress, First Congress, Ⅰ, 768, 770.