To proceed to consideration of the bill, S. 273, providing the construction of a railroad from the valley of the miss. To the pacific ocean. (p. 1089-1)

On May 4, 1854, the Senate voted 20–23 (S 273). Result: failed. By party: Democrats 10–17, Others 10–6. 10 members voted against their own party.

During the 33rd Congress (1853–1854), Franklin Pierce was president.

Yes: 20
No: 23
Did not vote: 27
Date: May 4, 1854

By party

Democrats10 yes · 17 no · 15 didn’t vote
Others10 yes · 6 no · 12 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

John B. Weller D-CA voted yes
William McKendree Gwin D-CA voted yes
Augustus Caesar Dodge D-IA voted yes
James Shields D-IL voted yes
Stephen Arnold Douglas D-IL voted yes
Jesse David Bright D-IN voted yes
John Slidell D-LA voted yes
Charles Tillinghast James D-RI voted yes
Thomas Jefferson Rusk D-TX voted yes
Isaac Pigeon Walker D-WI voted yes

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, S…: Senate Vote, May 4, 1854,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/33-S-123/to-proceed-to-consideration-of-the-bill-s-273 (accessed 2026-10-17).