Senate Rejection of a Same-Party Presidential Cabinet Nominee: A Century-Long Look Back

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As a president begins announcing his Cabinet selections, many still await Senate confirmation. These choices will test the loyalty of the Republican-led Senate and could lead to an unprecedented event – the first rejection in a century.

Only twelve Cabinet nominations have ever been rejected in U.S. history. Rejection by a President’s own party is exceedingly rare. The last instance occurred in 1925 when the Republican Senate refused to confirm President Calvin Coolidge’s Attorney General nominee, Charles B. Warren. 

TIME featured Warren on its January 1925 cover following Coolidge’s announcement. The magazine noted Coolidge’s personal regard for Warren, highlighting his intellect and describing him as suave and capable.

TIME further characterized Warren as a shrewd strategist.

However, controversy surrounded the nomination. Warren’s involvement in a “Sugar Trust” scandal, stemming from his recent departure as president of the Michigan Sugar Company, emerged. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) had charged seventeen companies, including the Michigan Sugar Company, with anti-competitive practices.

Warren was named as a defendant. The New York Times reported evidence suggesting Warren facilitated the suppression of competition. 

Senators worried this connection would compromise his impartiality in enforcing antitrust laws. Senator James Reed of Missouri famously commented on the nomination, expressing concern that the Department of Justice would fall under the control of the Sugar Trust.

The initial confirmation vote ended in a 40-40 tie, leaving the Vice President, Charles Dawes, who happened to be at the Willard Hotel, unable to cast a tie-breaking vote. 

Despite Republican warnings, Coolidge renominated Warren. The White House issued a statement affirming its commitment to his confirmation and even considering a recess appointment if necessary, emphasizing the importance of presidential prerogative in cabinet selections.

The Senate again rejected Warren, this time by a 46-39 vote. 

Only two subsequent Cabinet nominations have been rejected: one for Secretary of Commerce in 1959 and John Tower for Secretary of Defense in 1989—both Republican nominees rejected by a Democrat-controlled Senate.  

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