Washington, DC [US]: The US Congress convened on Monday to officially count electoral college votes and certify President-elect Donald Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the November presidential election, The Hill reported.
Donald Trump’s win was certified without objections from lawmakers, confirming his 312 electoral votes against Harris’s 226. This certification marks the final step before Trump’s inauguration on January 20, securing his return to the White House.
The certification proceedings, held in the House chamber, were presided over by Vice President Kamala Harris and concluded smoothly. Harris announced Trump’s victory, after which Republican lawmakers gave a standing ovation. A bipartisan standing ovation followed as Harris declared the joint session of Congress dissolved, according to The Hill. The entire process lasted about 30 minutes.
Kamala Harris described the peaceful transfer of power as a “sacred obligation” and a cornerstone of American democracy. In a video released before the certification, she stated, “As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile. It is up to each of us to stand up for our most cherished principles.”
Several lawmakers were involved in the counting process, including Senators Amy Klobuchar and Deb Fischer, as well as Representatives Bryan Steil and Joe Morelle. Vice President-elect JD Vance was also present during the session.
The certification occurred four years after rioters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to disrupt the 2020 election certification. At that time, Trump alleged widespread election fraud. On this occasion, however, the process proceeded without incident. Trump remained at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida during the certification.
Ahead of the event, Trump called the certification a “big moment in history.” Enhanced security measures were in place at Capitol Hill, including fencing around the complex and increased police presence, as a precaution against potential unrest.
Despite a snowstorm in Washington overnight, which created concerns about lawmakers’ ability to return to the Capitol, the certification proceeded as planned. Delaying the session would have required new legislation.
This peaceful certification underscores the commitment to upholding democratic processes in the United States.