Why did Congress put in a gag rule in 1835 that ended discussion of slavery anything?

In 1835, Congress implemented a gag rule to suppress debates on slavery in response to the growing tensions surrounding the issue, particularly from abolitionist movements and petitions flooding Congress. The rule aimed to maintain order and prevent divisive discussions that could threaten the fragile political balance between slave and free states. By limiting discourse on slavery, Congress sought to avoid escalating sectional conflicts that could disrupt national unity.