What was the primary stance of the Constitutional Union Party during the 1860 election?

The Constitutional Union Party, formed in 1860 in the context of growing national divisions over slavery, aimed to preserve the Union and avoid conflict. It positioned itself as a centrist alternative to the more polarizing views of the time. The primary stance of the party was to support the Constitution and the Union as they were, which effectively leaned towards pro-slavery policies while firmly opposing secession. They believed that the existing structures and compromises regarding slavery should remain intact to maintain peace and unity, reflective of a desire to uphold the political status quo rather than advocating for radical changes regarding slavery or its abolition. This stance highlights the party's focus on preserving the Union over taking a definitive stance for or against slavery itself.