In a significant moment for American politics, Congress formally validated President-elect Donald Trump's 2024 election win on Monday, paving the way for his return to the Oval Office later this month. The final electoral college tally, presented by designated tellers from both the Senate and the House, confirmed 312 votes for Trump and 226 for Vice President Kamala Harris.
This certification marks the culmination of the electoral process and sets the stage for Trump's inauguration on January 20th. The proceedings were overseen by Vice President Harris, who, despite her electoral defeat, emphasized the importance of the peaceful transfer of power as a cornerstone of American democracy. Prior to the certification, she released a video message underscoring this principle.
President-elect Trump's election was certified by Congress on Monday.
Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the certification.
The atmosphere in the House chamber was notably different from the tumultuous events of four years prior. This time, the certification unfolded smoothly, with bipartisan handshakes exchanged between Harris, Vice President-elect JD Vance, and members of Congress. The contrast highlights the return to a more conventional transfer of power.
Reactions to the certification were divided along party lines. Republicans celebrated Trump's victory and the prospect of a new political era, while Democrats reflected on the January 6th Capitol riot. Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) expressed his enthusiasm for Trump's presidency, while Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) contrasted the peaceful certification with the violence of four years ago.
The certification followed Speaker Mike Johnson's re-election to lead the House.
Trump himself acknowledged the certification on Truth Social, calling it a "big moment in history." Despite a heavy snowstorm that disrupted the Washington, D.C. area, lawmakers convened on Capitol Hill for the event, heeding the advice of GOP leaders to remain in the capital over the weekend to avoid travel complications. The announcement of Ohio's electoral votes was met with applause and a standing ovation for Ohio native, Vice President-elect Vance.
