To pass HR 2939, the independent counsel law, a bill to extend the appointment of independent prosecutors to investigate wrongdoing by top executive branch offi

On Nov 3, 1987, the Senate voted 85–10 (HR 2939). Result: passed. By party: Democrats 52–0, Republicans 34–10. It was a bipartisan vote: majorities of both parties voted yes. 10 members voted against their own party.

During the 100th Congress (1987–1988), Ronald Reagan was president, and Democrats held majorities in both the House and Senate.

Yes: 85
No: 10
Did not vote: 5
Date: Nov 3, 1987

By party

Republicans34 yes · 10 no · 2 didn’t vote
Democrats52 yes · 0 no · 3 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

Theodore Fulton (Ted) Stevens R-AK voted no
William Lester Armstrong R-CO voted no
James Albertus Mcclure R-ID voted no
Steven Douglas Symms R-ID voted no
William Thad Cochran R-MS voted no
Jesse Helms R-NC voted no
Gordon John Humphrey R-NH voted no
William Philip (Phil) Gramm R-TX voted no
Alan Kooi Simpson R-WY voted no
Malcolm Wallop R-WY voted no

The bill

H.R. 2939: A bill to amend title 28, United States Code, with respect to the appointment of independent counsel.

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 pass HR 2939, the independent counsel…: Senate Vote, Nov 3, 1987,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/100-S-365/to-pass-hr-2939-the-independent-counsel-law-a (accessed 2026-10-17).