It might be stated that Lincoln did not know much about military affairs so he based his decisions on what he read and studied. He chose his cabinet depending on those men capacities. and possible duties. He was willing to work with them even though some of them had a low opinion of him as regards this matter,. He was determined to do whatever it takes to win.
Many controversial decisions were taken and he thought he was going to lose the reelection because it had been over 3 years of war.
Members of the House of Representatives serve two-year terms and are considered for reelection every even year. Senators however, serve six-year terms and elections to the Senate are staggered over even years so that only about 1/3 of the Senate is up for reelection during any election
