In a formal joint session of Congress, Vice President Kamala Harris certified the electoral college win of President-elect Donald J. Trump, setting the stage for his upcoming inauguration.
Congress's certification on Monday officially confirmed Trump's victory, organizing his return to the White House on January 20, 2025, Fox News reported.
The count, led by Tellers including Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Representatives Bryan Steil (R-Wis.) and Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.), awarded 312 electoral votes to Trump against 226 for Harris. This act finalized the preparations for Trump’s inauguration later this month.
Vice President Kamala Harris, who was the runner-up in the November election, presided over the session, emphasizing the strength of American democratic processes. Prior to the session, she expressed the critical nature of a peaceful transfer of power through a video message.
In her statement, Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted, "The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy. As much as any other principal, it distinguishes our system of government from monarchy or tyranny."
Amidst the formalities, there were bipartisan interactions, with members from both parties engaging in handshakes, showcasing a unified front that starkly contrasted the 2020 certification marred by riots. Both Democrats and Republicans were present, staging a display of decorum absent four years ago.
The mood in the chamber was visibly bipartisan as Republicans celebrated while Democrats provided somber reminders of past tumults. The certification event remained orderly despite a significant snowstorm that had swept through Washington, D.C., prompting GOP leaders to insist on legislative attendance.
During the announcement of Ohio’s electoral votes, Republicans in the chamber particularly celebrated Vice President-elect JD Vance, giving him a standing ovation as a nod to his home state victory.
Republican Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee, reflected on the day with enthusiasm, "Today, I will vote to certify the election of President Donald J. Trump. It’s time to save America!" Contrastingly, Democratic Representative Lloyd Doggett of Texas recalled the chaos of January 6, 2021, with a reference to the much calmer circumstances this time around.
Before the quote by Rep. Lloyd Doggett, here is an insightful comment that sheds light on the differences between past and present certification processes:
"Four years ago today, Trump incited a deadly insurrection after he lost a free and fair election. Today, only snow is on the Capitol steps, not an angry mob bashing their way in to desecrate and injure."
Donald J. Trump remarked on the significance of the day through his social media platform, celebrating the congressional certification of his electoral victory as a 'big moment in history.' His comment underlined his enthusiasm about reclaiming the presidency, signifying a pivotal movement for his supporters.
Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., recently elected to lead the House, also played a significant role during this key democratic event, which was completed without disruption. His leadership will continue to be crucial in the days leading up to the inauguration.
The certification of Donald Trump as the next president by Congress marks a significant step in the United States' political cycle, emphasizing the national commitment to peaceful transitions of power. Highlights included Kamala Harris' role in the ceremony, the bipartisan conduct of attendees, and the contrasting tranquility opposed to past events.
