slimey Schiff to a duel to defend his honor.
Freedom of speech and politics were cornerstones of the new country. To besmirch a man because of his beliefs was not taken lightly. Political rivals such as senators, governors, mayors were challenged.
If dueling were still legal, we wouldn't have the likes of Schiff, Nadler, Schumer, Swalwell and others.
http://www.pbs.org/opb/historydetectives/feature/politics-and-pistols-dueling-in-america/