Nonsense, on several levels. First, the case could have been made, would have been made, and a conviction would have been obtained. Second, Davis was appointed once and then won an 'election' unopposed. I understand the election was a real nail-biter.
Nonsense, on several levels. First, some of the brightest minds attempting to craft a case against Davis knew that this would bring the constitutionality of secession before a jury, and a not-guilty verdict would condemn Lincoln and Chase. They all abandoned their efforts. Amazing that Chase would support ex post facto punishment for Davis et al, him being the Chief Justice.
Second, Davis was appointed once and then won an 'election' unopposed. I understand the election was a real nail-biter.
Secondly, despite your tagline, Jefferson Davis was elected by ballot in both cases. On Saturday 9 Feb 1861 the provisional Confederate Congress elected Jefferson Davis President, following a vote by states (same method used to elect Washington et al - 4 states had voted for Davis the 1st ballot):
"The vote being taken by States for President, the Hon. Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, received all the votes cast, being 6, and was duly declared unanimously elected President of the Provisional Government."
Regarding the popular election, Davis didn't resort to putting the military at the polling booths to guarantee his election like Lincoln.