Some Democrats and (whigs/republicans/free soldiers) opposed the spread of slavery but the leaders of both parties refused to take a stand because they did not want to lose any southern votes and feared that the slavery issue would (split/unify) the nation. The (democrats/whigs/replucicans/free soil party" openly denounced the institution of slavery, demanding that the federal government abolish slavery in all federal districts and territories. During the election of 1848, was the first time (sectionalism/slavery) became an important election issue.
The Free Soil Party openly denounced the institution of slavery, demanding that the federal government abolish slavery in all federal districts and territories. During the election of 1848, was the first time slavery became an important election issue.
