To proceed to consideration of the bill, H.R. 950 (12 stat 204,app. 3-2-61), authorizing the postmaster general to discontinue postal service with the states in

On Feb 21, 1861, the Senate voted 23–15 (HR 950). Result: passed. By party: Republicans 22–0, Democrats 0–15, Others 1–0. It was a party-line vote: most Democrats and most Republicans voted on opposite sides.

During the 36th Congress (1859–1860), James Buchanan was president, and Republicans held the House majority and Democrats the Senate majority.

Yes: 23
No: 15
Did not vote: 32
Date: Feb 21, 1861

By party

Democrats0 yes · 15 no · 26 didn’t vote
Republicans22 yes · 0 no · 5 didn’t vote
Others1 yes · 0 no · 1 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

Every member who voted sided with their party's majority.

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 proceed to consideration of the bill…: Senate Vote, Feb 21, 1861,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/36-S-518/to-proceed-to-consideration-of-the-bill-h-r (accessed 2026-10-17).