Democratic Sentinel, Volume 3, Number 5, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 14 March 1879 — A Long Extra Session Probable. [ARTICLE]

A Long Extra Session Probable.

The extra session of Congress is not likely to be a short one. The first thing the Democrats will endeavor to do is bo pass bills repealing the jurors’ test oath, for the repeal of the sections of the Revised Statutes which allow the use of troops at the polls, and for the repeal of the Federal Election laws. These bills will have to be reported from committees and discussed and passed by both houses before the Army and Legislative Appropriation bills can be reported. The Democratic majority in the House is so small and it is so difficult to keep members here that the Republicans can easily prevent any speedy action on these bills. In the Senate, of course, the minority can prolong the discussion as long as they choose, there being no previous question in the parliamentary practice of that body. It always becomes a question of physical endurance there when one side attempts to force a vote against the determination of the other.

The Chinese question will also come up in some shape, and will have to be disposed of. The Democrats will not desire to do this themselves, being content to let it rest now that the President has vetoed the bill passed at the last session, but the Republicans will insist on raising the issue. The Democrats being in control of both branches, their opponents will seek to embarrass them on this question. The Southern members will also insist upon action upon a bill to settle the claims which certain States have against the National Government for expenses incurred in the war of 1812. The reorganization of the army may also engage the attention of Congress, and it is certain that some attempt will be made to consider financial measures. It is therefore pretty well settled that Congress will not get away from here before the middle of June, and it is altogether likely that it will stay till July.— Washington Cor. Chicago Times.