The United States Congress on Monday, formally certified the election victory of Republican President-elect Donald Trump during a session presided over by Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost in the polls.
The recurring ceremony, paving the way for Trump’s inauguration in two weeks, proceeded seamlessly and sharply contrasted with four years prior when a group of Trump supporters breached the Capitol in an unsuccessful attempt to interfere with the certification of then-President-elect Joe Biden.
Harris oversaw the roll call of the states in the vice president’s ceremonial role as president of the Senate.
Known for her broad smiles and upbeat demeanor in public appearances, Harris stood stoic with hands clasped on the dais as she handed off certificates of each state’s electoral votes for Trump and herself.
“Today was obviously a very important day, and it was about what should be the norm and what the American people should be able to take for granted, which is that one of the most important pillars of our democracy is that there will be a peaceful transfer of power,” Harris told reporters at the Capitol.
“I do believe very strongly that American democracy is only as strong as our willingness to fight for it.”
Four years ago, then-Vice President Mike Pence had to preside over Biden’s victory.
Sitting in the House chamber was Senator JD Vance, whose vice presidential victory was also certified by Harris.
Vance stood and waved to the members in the chamber when his electoral vote total was announced.
“Congress certifies our great election victory today – a big moment in history. MAGA!” Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social earlier on Monday.
