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Censure vs. expulsion — disciplinary actions against members

Censure and expulsion are both formal disciplinary actions, but they're fundamentally different. Censure is a public reprimand by simple majority — symbolic, no legal effect. Expulsion is removal from office and requires 2/3 of the chamber. Only six House members and 15 senators have ever been expelled.

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    Censure — simple majority

    The chamber adopts a resolution publicly disapproving a member. The censured member must usually stand at the well of the chamber while the resolution is read. Reputational only — no loss of seat or committee assignments unless separately voted.

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    Expulsion — 2/3 majority

    Constitutionally authorized by Article I § 5. The chamber adopts a resolution removing the member from office. Once expelled, the seat becomes vacant; a special election fills it. Six House expulsions ever (3 in 1861 for Confederate sympathies, 1 in 1980, 1 in 2002, 1 in 2023).

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    How to read the question text

    Look for "expel" / "expulsion" — those are 2/3 expulsion votes. "Censure" or "reprimand" indicate the simple-majority disciplinary vote.