To postpone consideration of H. R. 72, and take up for consideration H. R. 666, the bill to make appropriations for consular and diplomatic expenses.

On Feb 17, 1859, the Senate voted 28–28 (HR 72). Result: failed. By party: Democrats 27–8, Republicans 0–18, Others 1–2. It was a split vote: the parties took opposite sides, with some members crossing over. 8 members voted against their own party.

During the 35th Congress (1857–1858), James Buchanan was president, and Democrats held majorities in both the House and Senate.

Yes: 28
No: 28
Did not vote: 17
Date: Feb 17, 1859

By party

Democrats27 yes · 8 no · 12 didn’t vote
Republicans0 yes · 18 no · 3 didn’t vote
Others1 yes · 2 no · 2 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

David Colbreth Broderick D-CA voted no
Stephen Arnold Douglas D-IL voted no
Jesse David Bright D-IN voted no
Charles Edward Stuart D-MI voted no
Henry Mower Rice D-MN voted no
George Ellis Pugh D-OH voted no
Delazon Smith D-OR voted no
Andrew Johnson D-TN 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 postpone consideration of H. R. 72, and…: Senate Vote, Feb 17, 1859,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/35-S-575/to-postpone-consideration-of-h-r-72-and-take (accessed 2026-10-17).