What Does It Mean to Censure a Congressmember

What Does It Mean to Censure a Congressmember? A Human Explanation

Picture this: A lawmaker stands in a hushed House chamber as their colleagues publicly shame them for misconduct. No, it’s not a scene from House of Cards—it’s a congressional censure, one of Washington’s oldest (and most dramatic) forms of accountability. But what does it actually mean to censure someone in Congress? Let’s demystify the drama, from fiery floor debates to real-life examples like the Al Green censure vote.

Censure 101: Congress’s “Scarlet Letter”

At its core, a censure is a formal rebuke—a way for Congress to say, “You messed up, and we’re calling you out.” It’s like being called to the principal’s office, but with C-SPAN cameras rolling. Here’s the scoop:

• No expulsion: Unlike expulsion (which boots a member out of office), censure lets them keep their job.
• Public shaming: The censured member must stand silently while the resolution against them is read aloud. (Awkward? You bet.)
• Historical flair: The practice dates back to 1832, when Senator William R. King was censured for fistfighting in the Senate chamber.

Why Censure Someone? It’s All About Accountability

Censure isn’t just political theater—though it’s often used as a weapon by rival parties. It’s meant to:

1. Uphold ethics: Call out lying, corruption, or behavior that “brings shame” on Congress.
2. Send a message: “This won’t be tolerated.”
3. Pressure peers: Force lawmakers to answer to voters (and viral headlines).

But critics argue it’s mostly symbolic. As former Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-NY)—who was censured in 2010 for tax evasion—put it: “I survived. But it stays on your record like a tattoo.”

The Censure Process: How It Actually Works

Let’s break it down like a TikTok explainer:

1. Step 1: A resolution is filed (e.g., “Rep. X lied about their taxes!”).
2. Step 2: The House debates it—cue fiery speeches and partisan applause lines.
3. Step 3: A simple majority vote (50%+1) decides the fate.
4. Step 4: If it passes, the member is humiliated on the floor.

What happens next?

• No legal penalties, but reputational damage.
• Potential loss of committee assignments (if their party decides).
• A permanent mark on their official congressional record.

Real-Life Drama: The Al Green Censure Vote

In July 2023, Texas Democrat Al Green became a censure target after accusing Republicans of racism during a heated floor debate. GOP Rep. Andrew Clyde pushed the resolution, claiming Green’s remarks “stoked racial hatred.”

The fallout:

• The vote failed 207-216, but three Democrats crossed party lines to support it.
• Who voted yes? Reps. Chris Pappas (NH), Susan Wild (PA), and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA).
• Who didn’t? Despite rumors, Oregon’s Maxine Dexter (D) opposed the censure.

For the full vote breakdown, see the House Clerk’s official tally.

“But Wait—Didn’t They Censure Adam Schiff Too?”

Yep! Censure votes are increasingly common in today’s hyper-partisan climate. Recent examples:

• Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA): Censured in 2023 over Trump-Russia investigation claims (NPR coverage).
• Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI): Censured in 2023 for Israel-Hamas war comments.
• Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ): Censured in 2021 for sharing violent anti-Biden cartoons.

Censure vs. Expulsion: What’s the Difference?

• Censure: “You’re grounded, but you can still use the car.”
• Requires majority vote.
• 26 House members ever censured.
• Expulsion: “Give us your keys and get out.”
• Needs a two-thirds vote.
• Only 20 members expelled, mostly for supporting slavery or the Confederacy.

Why Should You Care?

Censure matters because:

• It’s a snapshot of political priorities. (Why censure this person but not that one?)
• It tests party loyalty. (See: Democrats splitting on Al Green’s vote.)
• It reminds lawmakers that actions have consequences—even if those consequences are mostly reputational.

For a deeper dive, watch C-SPAN’s guide to congressional discipline or explore the Congressional Research Service’s report.

FAQ: Your Burning Censure Questions, Answered

1. Can a censured congressmember run for re-election?
   Absolutely. Censure doesn’t block future campaigns—but voters might care.
2. Has anyone ever been censured twice?
   Yes! Rep. Benjamin Hardin (D-KY) was censured in 1832 and 1834. Overachiever?
3. Do senators get censured too?
   Yep. Sen. Joseph McCarthy (R-WI) was censured in 1954 for his infamous Communist “witch hunts.”

The Takeaway

Censure is Congress’s way of saying “We see you, and we’re not happy.” While it won’t send anyone to jail, it’s a stark reminder that in politics, reputation is everything. So next time you see “censured” trending, you’ll know it’s more than just noise—it’s democracy holding its own accountable.

Got questions? Drop them below! And for real-time updates, follow @USHouseFloor on X (formerly Twitter).