Lincoln scrutinized the strategy and tactics in the war effort, including the selection of generals and the naval blockade of the South's trade. Lincoln not only pulled off his strategy of gaining the nomination in 1846, but also won election. He was the only Whig in the Illinois delegation, but as dutiful as any, participated in almost all votes and made speeches that toed the party line. He was assigned to the Committee on Post Office and Post Roads and the Committee on Expenditures in the War Department. He dropped the bill when it eluded Whig support. On foreign and military policy, Lincoln spoke against the Mexican–American War, which he imputed to President James K. Polk's desire for 'military glory—that attractive rainbow, that rises in showers of blood.'