HR 6027. Social security amendments of 1961. Increase benefits for widows and retired workers, permit age 62 retirement for men with reduced benefits, liberal

On Jun 26, 1961, the Senate voted 59–30 (HR 6027). Result: passed. By party: Democrats 61–0, Republicans 3–32. It was a party-line vote: most Democrats and most Republicans voted on opposite sides. 3 members voted against their own party.

During the 87th Congress (1961–1962), John F. Kennedy was president, and Democrats held majorities in both the House and Senate.

Yes: 59
No: 30
Did not vote: 5
Date: Jun 26, 1961

By party

Democrats61 yes · 0 no · 1 didn’t vote
Republicans3 yes · 32 no · 4 didn’t vote

Who broke with their party

Henry Clarence Dworshak R-ID voted yes
Leverett Saltonstall R-MA voted yes
Carl Thomas Curtis R-NE voted yes

The bill

H.R. 6027: To improve benefits under the old-age, survivors, and disability insurance program by increasing the minimum benefits and aged widows benefits and by making additional persons eligible for benefits under the program, and for other purposes

How each senator voted: Yes

How each senator voted: No

Voted present

Did not vote

Other votes

From Voteview roll call records.

Cite or embed this page

Capitol Receipts, “HR 6027. Social security amendments of 1961…: Senate Vote, Jun 26…,” https://www.capitolreceipts.com/vote/87-S-80/hr-6027-social-security-amendments-of-1961-increase-benefits (accessed 2026-10-17).