Electoral history of Abraham Lincoln

Lincoln served one term in the United States House of Representatives from Illinois (1847–1849).

[9] Declines serving in that seat in order to be eligible for his immediate candidacy for United States Senate.

[10][11] The election was held in November 1854, for a term starting in January 1855.

When pro-Nebraska Democrats were unable to reelect Shields, they switched their allegiance to Matteson, who had no stance on the Act.

Lincoln then withdrew and threw his support to Trumbull, so that an anti-Nebraska candidate would be assured victory.

This triggered an avalanche towards Lincoln with a final count of 364 votes out of 466 cast.