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Senate roll call 37 · 96th Congress · Apr 5, 1979

To amend S.210 by restoring the right of voluntary prayer in public schools. (motion passed) (continued) see note(s) 4

On Apr 5, 1979, the Senate voted 47–37 (S 210). Result: passed. By party: Democrats 24–27, Republicans 22–10, Independents 1–0. It was a split vote: the parties took opposite sides, with some members crossing over. 34 members voted against their own party.

During the 96th Congress (1979–1980), Jimmy Carter was president, and Democrats held majorities in both the House and Senate.

Yes
47
No
37
Did not vote
17
Date
Apr 5, 1979

By party

  • Democrats24 yes · 27 no · 8 didn’t vote
  • Republicans22 yes · 10 no · 9 didn’t vote
  • Independents1 yes · 0 no

Who broke with their party

The bill

S. 210: A bill to establish a Department of Education.

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 amend S.210 by restoring the right of…: Senate Vote, Apr 5, 1979,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/96-S-37/to-amend-s-210-by-restoring-the-right-of (accessed 2026-10-17).