The U.S. Congress has officially certified Donald Trump’s election victory, paving the way for his inauguration on January 20, 2025. In an unexpected twist, the session was presided over by Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost the election to Trump in November.
The certification process, a quadrennial tradition, went smoothly, unlike the events of January 6, 2021, when Trump supporters stormed the Capitol to block Joe Biden’s victory. This time, the process proceeded without disruption, securing Trump’s return to the White House with 312 Electoral College votes to Harris’s 226.
A Moment of Political Irony
Harris, in her ceremonial role as President of the Senate, remained composed while confirming her own defeat. Known for her confident and expressive public persona, she maintained a stoic demeanor as she read out Trump’s electoral votes.
Speaking to reporters afterward, she emphasized the importance of democracy, stating:
“Today was about upholding one of the most fundamental pillars of democracy: the peaceful transfer of power. American democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it.”
This moment echoed previous high-profile losses, such as when Mike Pence certified Biden’s win in 2021 and Al Gore oversaw George W. Bush’s certification in 2001 after a contested Supreme Court ruling.
Trump’s Response and Republican Power
Trump celebrated his victory on Truth Social, writing:
“Congress certifies our great election victory today – a big moment in history. MAGA!”
Republicans emerged from the election stronger than before, securing control of both the House and the Senate. This power shift will enable Trump to push forward policies, including tax cuts and stricter immigration enforcement.
Despite their loss, Democrats did not challenge the certification. House Democratic leader Katherine Clark stated:
“We must renew our commitment to safeguarding democracy. Our loyalty must be to the Constitution, first and always.”
Heightened Security at the Capitol
Security around the U.S. Capitol was significantly increased to prevent any disruptions. Measures included:
- Metal barricades set up hundreds of yards from the Capitol
- Checkpoints manned by uniformed police officers
- Convoys of black police vehicles and a mobile command center from Baltimore
- Extra Capitol Police units stationed at entrances and tunnels
With these security measures in place, authorities aimed to prevent any repeat of past unrest ahead of Trump’s swearing-in on January 20.
Trump’s Plans to Pardon January 6 Rioters
One of Trump’s most controversial post-election promises is to pardon individuals charged in the January 6 Capitol riot. Over 1,500 people have been prosecuted for their involvement in the violent attack, where rioters breached the Capitol, assaulted 140 police officers, and caused $2.8 million in damages.
Many of those involved faced lengthy prison sentences, and some police officers died in the weeks following the attack, some by suicide. Trump has expressed sympathy for those convicted, vowing to grant pardons once in office.
As Trump prepares to return to power, the nation is watching closely to see how his policies and decisions will shape the next four years.
