Henry Clay, "On the Seminole War," U.S. House of Representatives
19 January 1819.

Henry Clay, "On the Expunging Resolutions," U.S. Senate
16 January 1837




Prepared by:
Anthony J. Adam




Part 1

Henry Clay, "On the Expunging Resolutions," U.S. Senate, 16
January 1837

Mr. President:

WHAT patriotic purpose is to be accomplished by this Expunging
resolution? What new honor or fresh laurels will it win for our
common country? Is the power of the Senate so vast that it ought to
be circumscribed, and that of the President so restricted that it ought
to be extended? What power has the Senate? None, separately. It can
only act jointly with the other House, or jointly with the Executive.
And although the theory of the Constitution supposes, when consulted
by him, it may freely give an affirmative or negative response,