To order the main question concerning the resolution that all petitions, memorials and papers concerning the abolition of slavery be tabled without any further

On Dec 21, 1837, the House voted 129–64. Result: passed. By party: Democrats 95–6, Others 33–58, Independents 1–0. 6 members voted against their own party.

During the 25th Congress (1837–1838), Martin Van Buren was president.

Yes: 129
No: 64
Did not vote: 64
Date: Dec 21, 1837

By party

Democrats95 yes · 6 no · 33 didn’t vote
Others33 yes · 58 no · 31 didn’t vote
Independents1 yes · 0 no

Who broke with their party

Elisha Haley D-CT voted no
William Parmenter D-MA voted no
Nathaniel Briggs Borden D-MA voted no
Daniel Sheffer D-PA voted no
William Wilson Potter D-PA voted no
Isaac Fletcher D-VT voted no

How each representative voted: Yes

How each representative voted: No

Did not vote

Other votes

From Voteview roll call records.

Cite or embed this page

Capitol Receipts, “To order the main question concerning the…: House Vote, Dec 21, 1837,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/25-H-61/to-order-the-main-question-concerning-the-resolution-that (accessed 2026-10-15).