To adopt resolution to reconsider the nomination of thomas brownell to be a lieutenant in the navy from dec. 26, 1843, on the reserve list on furlough pay. (p.

On Jan 20, 1858, the Senate voted 13–24. Result: failed. By party: Democrats 11–10, Republicans 1–12, Others 1–2. It was a split vote: the parties took opposite sides, with some members crossing over. 11 members voted against their own party.

During the 35th Congress (1857–1858), James Buchanan was president, and Democrats held majorities in both the House and Senate.

Yes: 13
No: 24
Did not vote: 36
Date: Jan 20, 1858

By party

Democrats11 yes · 10 no · 26 didn’t vote
Republicans1 yes · 12 no · 8 didn’t vote
Others1 yes · 2 no · 2 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

David Colbreth Broderick D-CA voted no
William McKendree Gwin D-CA voted no
Alfred Iverson Sr. D-GA voted no
Robert Augustus Toombs D-GA voted no
George Wallace Jones D-IA voted no
James Harlan R-IA voted yes
Stephen Arnold Douglas D-IL voted no
Jesse David Bright D-IN voted no
Judah Philip Benjamin D-LA voted no
William Wright D-NJ voted no
William Bigler D-PA voted no

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 adopt resolution to reconsider the…: Senate Vote, Jan 20, 1858,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/35-S-60/to-adopt-resolution-to-reconsider-the-nomination-of-thomas (accessed 2026-10-17).