Based on the views of the candidates regarding slavery in 1860, here’s how each voter statement aligns with a particular candidate’s stance:
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"I'm glad slavery isn't allowed in my state, but I think that each state should decide for themselves how to handle the slavery question."
- Candidate: Stephen Douglas
- Explanation: Douglas supported popular sovereignty, allowing states to decide whether to permit slavery.
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"I'm worried that taking any action on slavery now may lead to war. The government should avoid changing any laws about slavery until things calm down."
- Candidate: John Bell
- Explanation: As a Constitutional Union candidate, Bell took a more moderate approach and likely would advocate for maintaining the status quo to avoid conflict and preserve the Union.
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"I believe slavery is evil; if we can't get rid of it now, we must at least do whatever we can to stop it from spreading."
- Candidate: Abraham Lincoln
- Explanation: Lincoln’s strong anti-slavery sentiments are evident in this statement, as he aimed to prohibit the extension of slavery into new territories, although he did not propose immediate eradication of existing slavery.
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"I think the states should decide whether to allow slavery, and the federal government should protect the rights of slaveholders. American citizens should be able to take their property anywhere they want to within the United States."
- Candidate: John Breckinridge
- Explanation: Breckinridge supported popular sovereignty while also advocating for the protection of slavery rights and property, aligning with the sentiment expressed in the statement.