As you said. And as I pointed out it was not threatened in places where it currently existed. Expansion was definitely threatened by Lincoln and the Republicans, and Lincoln did not mince words on that either.
I said he supported stronger fugitive slave legislation. I did not say he said that specifically in his inaugural address. He didn’t. He said that at other times. He did not talk about fugitive slave legislation in his inaugural address.
Well then how about some quotes?
Yes, as I said, slavery was not threatened.
It was not economically viable in places like New Mexico or Arizona anyway so there was no real appetite to spread slavery there once votes in the Senate were no longer needed.
“When Southern people tell us that they are no more responsible for the origin of slavery than we are, I acknowledge the fact. When it is said the institution exists, and it is very difficult to get rid of in any satisfactory way, I can understand and appreciate the saying. I surely will not blame them for not doing what I should not know what to do as to the existing institution.........
A system of gradual emancipation might well be adopted, and I will not undertake to judge our Southern friends for tardiness in this matter. I acknowledge the constitutional rights of the States — not grudgingly, but fairly and fully, and I will give them any legislation for reclaiming their fugitive slaves.” Abraham Lincoln