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7/6/2025 • 6 min read
Title: Understanding the US Congress Certification of Donald Trump's 2024 Election Victory: Reflections and Implications
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Your comprehensive guide to what the 2024 US elections mean for Washington and the world
Unlock the White House Watch publication totally free
Your comprehensive guide to what the 2024 US elections mean for Washington and the world
On January 6, 2021, the United States Capitol was stormed by a mob of Donald Trump's supporters in an attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Four years later, on January 6, 2024, the same hallowed building witnessed a far different scene as the US Congress certified Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 elections. This article will delve into the implications of this momentous occasion, its contrast with the previous events, and the broader context within which it unfolds.
The US Congress Certifies Donald Trump’s Victory: A Peaceful Transition
Lawmakers' approval of Trump's victory over Vice President Kamala Harris will clear the way for him to take office as planned on Jan. 20, marking a comeback that defies his criminal conviction and the political damage he suffered after his defeat in 2020. The peaceful transition of power, a fundamental principle of American democracy, was evident during this ceremony. Unlike four years ago, there were no violent protests or disruptions to the joint session of Congress. Instead, the only noticeable disturbance came from heavy snowfall that paralyzed Washington, D.C., causing the closure of federal offices and schools.
The Echoes of January 6, 2021: A Shadow over the Ceremony
While the day was peaceful, the shadow of the attack on the Capitol four years ago loomed large over the ceremony. Tight security measures were put in place, with uniformed officers patrolling the premises and metal detectors at the entrances. As a precautionary measure, National Guard troops were deployed around the Capitol complex. The memory of the January 6, 2021, attack was still fresh in everyone's minds, serving as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that lurk when the peaceful transfer of power is challenged.
The Impeachment and Its Aftermath: A Look Back at the Past Four Years
Jamie Raskin, the Democratic congressman who led the impeachment of Trump through the House four years ago, reflected on the peaceful nature of the day's proceedings. "It was a peaceful day because we don't have any election deniers on our side – and we are trying to act as constitutional patriots," Raskin stated. This statement serves as a stark contrast to the events that unfolded four years ago, when Trump refused to acknowledge Biden's victory, claiming widespread fraud and encouraging his supporters to "stop the steal."
Vice President Harris, who presided over the ceremony, echoed similar sentiments. "The peaceful transfer of power is one of the most fundamental principles of American democracy," she stated in a brief video posted on X Monday morning. Harris had been present during the certification of Biden's victory in 2021, an event that had infuriated Trump and many members of the Republican base.
The Election Four Years Ago: A Tumultuous Time
Four years ago, on January 6, 2021, Congress was forced to certify Biden's victory amidst a violent attack by Trump supporters on the Capitol. The attackers stormed the building, causing chaos and destruction. Some were charged and criminally convicted for their actions, but Trump has promised to pardon them as victims of political persecution.
The Road to Victory: The 2024 Elections
In the November 5 election, Trump defeated Harris by a wide margin in the Electoral College, securing 312 votes compared to Harris's 226. He also narrowly won the popular vote by 1.5 percentage points. However, Democrats urged Americans not to forget what happened four years ago, calling it one of the darkest days in American political history.
The Challenges Ahead: Protecting Democracy and Ensuring a Peaceful Transfer of Power
Democrats emphasized the need to protect democracy, ensure free and fair elections, and maintain a peaceful transfer of power. "We will never repeat the events of January 6, 2021," said Jason Crow, a Colorado Democrat. "We must always work to defend our democracy, shield free and fair elections, and ensure a peaceful transition of power. Regardless of our political views, we are all Americans. Violence can never be the answer to our political differences."
The Reactions in Congress: A Divided House
As the count unfolded on Monday, Republicans in the House clapped and cheered when the states Trump won were mentioned, while Democrats cheered Harris's victories. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia congresswoman close to Trump, stood as she read about his victory in the southern battleground state. Taylor Greene, who voted against certifying Biden's 2020 victory and echoed Trump's claim that this election was "stolen," stated Monday it was "completely different" due to the polls being "utterly different" because of "Covid lockdowns and the historic use of mail-in ballots." Four years ago, the same process had led to violent protests.
The Future: A New Era or More of the Same?
Republican John Thune, the new Senate majority leader, and Chuck Schumer, the chamber's Democratic chief, sat in the front row on either side of the aisle. The future remains uncertain as the country faces numerous challenges, including economic instability, political polarization, and ongoing global crises. Trump's return to power could signal a new era or more of the same. Only time will tell.
In conclusion, the US Congress certification of Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 elections marks a significant moment in American politics. While the day was peaceful, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power. The events of four years ago still cast a long shadow over the proceedings, but the country moves forward with hope for a more stable future. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but Americans must continue to work towards protecting their democracy and promoting peace and unity.