Congress Set to Certify Donald Trump 2024 Victory Amid Snowstorm and Heightened Security

Certification Process Proceeds in Snow-Covered Washington

The U.S. Congress is set to convene in Washington, D.C., on Monday to certify Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election. The session will take place despite a winter storm expected to bring up to 6 inches (15 cm) of snow to the capital.

Election Results and Republican Gains

Unofficial results show Donald Trump winning 312 electoral votes to Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris’s 226. Republicans also gained a majority in the U.S. Senate and hold a narrow edge in the House of Representatives, positioning Trump to advance his legislative agenda, including tax cuts and stricter immigration policies.

No Democratic Challenge Expected

Democrats have indicated they will not challenge the certification. House Democratic Leader Katherine Clark emphasized the importance of honoring the Constitution and the rule of law, stating, “We must renew our commitment to safeguarding American democracy.”

Jan. 6 Legacy and Legal Changes

The certification process occurs under tightened security and new legal safeguards following the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. During that event, a mob disrupted the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory, resulting in violence, officer casualties, and extensive property damage.

New Legal Protections for Certification

Legislation enacted in late 2022 strengthened protocols to ensure the integrity of the certification process:

The vice president’s role in certification is now ceremonial.
Objections to state results require support from at least one-fifth of House and Senate members, compared to just one member previously.
State electors must be chosen under laws enacted before Election Day, curbing attempts to submit alternate slates of electors.

Security Measures for Inauguration

Ahead of the January 20 inauguration, a security fence has been erected around the Capitol complex to prevent disruptions.

Trump’s Comments on Pardons

Donald Trump has stated plans to pardon individuals charged for their roles in the January 6, 2021, Capitol assault, which led to over 1,500 arrests and significant property damage. The incident prompted bipartisan efforts to fortify democratic safeguards in the certification process.