To amend the resolution by exonerating seward on grounds that he gave legally sufficient reasons for not producing books described in subpoena, that his refusal

On Feb 27, 1879, the House voted 119–142. Result: failed. By party: Democrats 4–138, Republicans 116–4, Others 0–2. It was a party-line vote: most Democrats and most Republicans voted on opposite sides. 8 members voted against their own party.

During the 45th Congress (1877–1878), Rutherford B. Hayes was president, and Democrats held the House majority and Republicans the Senate majority.

Yes: 119
No: 142
Did not vote: 38
Date: Feb 27, 1879

By party

Democrats4 yes · 138 no · 16 didn’t vote
Others0 yes · 2 no
Republicans116 yes · 4 no · 22 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

Benjamin Franklin Marsh R-IL voted no
Anthony Friday Ittner R-MO voted no
Curtis Hooks Brogden R-NC voted no
Benjamin Albertson Willis D-NY voted yes
William Henry Baker R-NY voted no
David Browning Culberson D-TX voted yes
Roger Quarles Mills D-TX voted yes
William Pitt Lynde D-WI voted yes

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 amend the resolution by exonerating…: House Vote, Feb 27, 1879,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/45-H-353/to-amend-the-resolution-by-exonerating-seward-on-grounds (accessed 2026-10-17).