(The compiler notes that November 8, 1864 was the Presidential election)

On November 8, 1864 the newspaper Daily Ohio Statesman carried the following article: “THE FREEDOM OF ELECTIONS” “ANOTHER OUTRAGE UPON THE SOLDIERS BY ABOLITIONISTS” “REFUSAL TO ALLOW DEMOCRATIC TICKETS IN CAMPS”

"The War Department issued an order, a few weeks ago to the effect that one agent from each political party would be granted passes to enter the military camps throughout the country for the purpose of supplying the soldiers with such tickets as they desired to vote at elections. In pursuance of this order, the Democratic State Central Committee of Ohio made applications to the War Department for two passes for Democratic agents to enter Camp Chase and Tod Barracks, to supply those with Democratic tickets who desired them. This application was made through the Honorable Charles Mason, of Washington City, and the following is his reply to the Chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee:

Washington, November 4, 1864. Dear Sir: Yours of the 1st instant was received this morning. I sent a special messenger to the War Department, who presented your papers to the proper officer there, who after examination and consultation informed him that the request could not be granted, and refused to give any reasons for the refusal. Yours truly, Charles Mason.”

(The compiler notes Columbus was located in Franklin County, Ohio and President Lincoln lost the vote in Franklin County more so in 1864 than he did in the 1860 election)