Congress officially certified President-elect Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential race during a calm joint session on Monday, in stark contrast to the violent events of January 6, 2021.
Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the proceeding, certifying her own defeat as the Democratic nominee, while Trump secured 312 electoral votes to her 226.
The Capitol, encased in snow and surrounded by security fencing, bore a subdued atmosphere.
No objections were raised to the electoral results, marking a peaceful transition of power four years after Trump supporters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to overturn Joe Biden’s 2020 win.
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) expressed excitement about certifying Trump’s return to office. “The American people have rejected socialism and wokeism. They’ve chosen President Trump to lead them,” she said, predicting no Democratic objections. Luna reiterated claims of fraud in the 2020 election, despite a lack of evidence.
First-term Rep. Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio), who witnessed the 2021 riot as a state legislator, described her presence at the 2024 certification as “surreal.” Her motivation to run for Congress was fueled by a commitment to protecting democracy.
“I thanked Capitol police for their service,” she shared, emphasising the importance of safeguarding peaceful power transitions.
A significant number of House Democrats were absent from the session. Despite this, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) urged members to remain in Washington, as Republicans prepared to advance a policy agenda following the certification.
You certifying your own loss is the best birthday present one could ever wish for… #January6th https://t.co/oBvs9OLZYi
— Eric Trump (@EricTrump) January 6, 2025
This historic moment marks the official return of Donald Trump to the presidency, underscoring the nation’s continuing political divides while highlighting a renewed focus on stability.
