To consider S. 186, a bill to authorize and facilitate construction of a railroad and magnetic telegraph through the territories of the U.S.; no quorum voting.

On Aug 8, 1856, the Senate voted 20–8 (S 186). Result: passed. By party: Democrats 11–7, Others 9–1. 7 members voted against their own party.

During the 34th Congress (1855–1856), Franklin Pierce was president.

Yes: 20
No: 8
Did not vote: 36
Date: Aug 8, 1856

By party

Democrats11 yes · 7 no · 21 didn’t vote
Others9 yes · 1 no · 14 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

David Levy Yulee D-FL voted no
Stephen Russell Mallory D-FL voted no
John Slidell D-LA voted no
Asa Biggs D-NC voted no
David Settle Reid D-NC voted no
George Ellis Pugh D-OH voted no
Richard Brodhead D-PA voted no

How each senator voted: Yes

How each senator voted: No

Did not vote

Other votes

From Voteview roll call records.

Cite or embed this page

Capitol Receipts, “To consider S. 186, a bill to authorize and…: Senate Vote, Aug 8, 1856,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/34-S-197/to-consider-s-186-a-bill-to-authorize-and (accessed 2026-10-17).