In 1888, the political landscape in Tennessee shifted significantly due to the increase in black suffrage, which bolstered the Republican Party's competitiveness. This shift alarmed pro-Democratic factions, leading the Avalanche publication to predict a decisive Republican victory in the upcoming elections. The fear of losing political power prompted discussions about potential measures to counter this trend.

This situation illustrates the impact of voting rights on political dynamics, particularly how enfranchisement can empower historically marginalized groups. The Democratic Party's concerns reflect a broader theme often seen in American politics, where changes in voter demographics and rights can lead to significant shifts in party power and influence, a reality explored in Steven Levitsky's work "How Democracies Die."