To amend S. 45, by eliminating the first section authorizing the sale of public arms to the states. (p. 1197-1)

On Mar 16, 1860, the Senate voted 20–28 (S 45). Result: failed. By party: Democrats 0–26, Republicans 20–0, Others 0–2. It was a party-line vote: most Democrats and most Republicans voted on opposite sides.

During the 36th Congress (1859–1860), James Buchanan was president, and Republicans held the House majority and Democrats the Senate majority.

Yes: 20
No: 28
Did not vote: 22
Date: Mar 16, 1860

By party

Democrats0 yes · 26 no · 15 didn’t vote
Republicans20 yes · 0 no · 7 didn’t vote
Others0 yes · 2 no

Who broke with their party

Every member who voted sided with their party's majority.

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. 45, by eliminating the first…: Senate Vote, Mar 16, 1860,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/36-S-115/to-amend-s-45-by-eliminating-the-first-section (accessed 2026-10-16).