what is a roll call vote

A roll call vote is a type of voting procedure where each persons name is called, and they cast their vote in favor or against a particular motion. The board secretary or clerk typically reads through the roll in alphabetical order, and each person responds with their vote. In the U.S. Senate, for example, each senator votes "yea" or "nay" as their name is called by the clerk, who records the votes on a tally sheet. Roll call votes are used in both the House and Senate, and they are typically requested when one-fifth of a quorum of senators or representatives request it. The clerk records the votes on a tally sheet, and in most cases, a simple majority is required for a measure to pass. In the case of a tie, the vice president may cast the tie-breaking vote. Roll call votes are used to ensure that each members vote is recorded accurately and transparently.