The U.S. Congress has formally certified the election victory of President-elect Donald Trump, confirming his win in the November elections against Democratic candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris. This certification paves the way for Trump’s swearing-in on January 20, reports RFE.
The certification process took place during a swift and formal joint session of the House of Representatives and the Senate, presided over by Harris in her capacity as Senate President.
The ceremony marked a sharp contrast to the chaotic events of four years ago when a group of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol in an unsuccessful attempt to prevent the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election.
In a statement on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump celebrated the certification, calling it a “big moment in history,” and emphasizing his slogan, “MAGA” (Make America Great Again).
The final certification confirmed the preliminary results, with Trump securing 312 electoral votes, while Harris received 226.
Republicans Secure Control of Congress and the White House
In addition to the presidential victory, Republicans also secured a majority in the U.S. Senate and maintained a narrow majority in the House of Representatives, ensuring Trump has the necessary party backing to implement his planned agenda, which includes tax cuts and the deportation of undocumented immigrants.
Democrats refrained from attempting to block the certification of Trump’s victory. Katherine Clark, the number two Democrat in the House of Representatives, emphasized the need to “renew our commitment to protecting American democracy,” reaffirming loyalty to the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law.
Increased security measures were implemented inside and outside the Capitol in preparation for the certification, with metal fences surrounding the area and stringent identity checks at entry points.
Security and the Aftermath of the January 6 Capitol Riots
The heightened security comes after the violent Capitol riots of January 6, 2021, when Trump supporters breached police barricades, clashed with officers, and caused significant damage to the Capitol. Some police officers involved in the skirmishes later died, including several by suicide.
As a result of the violence, Congress passed legislation in late 2022 to strengthen legal protections and ensure the certification process is conducted lawfully. This new law clarifies that the vice president’s role in the certification process is largely ceremonial.
