in 1859, mcclernand was again elected to the house to fill a vacancy caused by the death of thomas l. harris. his term began on november 8. he was a strong unionist and introduced the resolution of july 15, 1861, pledging money and men to the national government. in 1860 he was defeated in a bid for the speakership of the house of representatives; the coalition of representatives opposing him objected to his moderate views on slavery and the importance of retaining the union.