when the constitution was adopted in 1788, senators were to be elected by the state legislatures. this remained in effect for 125 years. by the late 19th century it became clear there were many problems with this procedure. in addition to long vacancies that lasted for months and even years, political machines had gained control over state legislatures. this corrupted the process and the senate was seen as a "millionaire's club" who served private interests instead of the people. beginning in the 1890s, the house of representatives passed several resolutions for a constitutional amendment which proposed senators be elected by direct election. the senate refused to even take a vote on these proposals.