On Monday, Congress officially certified the results of the 2024 presidential election, confirming Donald Trump's victory and marking one of the most significant days for American democracy since the events of January 6, 2021. Vice President Kamala Harris, who presided over the certification, stood at the forefront of this momentous occasion existing under the shadow of her previous role where she faced unprecedented challenges during the Capitol riots just four years prior.
With no objections from Coloradans and no violent disruptions, this year’s proceedings unfolded smoothly, reminiscent of the pre-2021 election days. The atmosphere, marked by heavy security due to the snowstorm and the legacy of the attack on the Capitol, offered stark visuals with layers of tall black fencing surrounding the U.S. Capitol complex, echoing the tumultuous events of 2021.
“Democracy must be upheld by the people,” Harris told NBC News moments before the ceremony began. Her words encapsulated the gravity of her role as she prepared to certify the electoral votes, which fundamentally influence the fabric of American governance.
The ceremonial headcount began, and amid applause from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, the electoral votes were announced. Trump received 312 votes, defeating Harris who secured 226. This process, overseen by Harris, occurred without the chaos and tumult of previous years. The smooth operation harkened back to the sentiment shared by legislatures who remembered vividly how their duties were disrupted last time, when lawmakers were forced to flee their chambers for safety as rioters overtook the Capitol.
The tight security surrounding the event mirrored the heightened awareness of past threats. The Capitol Police had prepared for potential unrest but found nothing of the sort. Instead, the proceedings rested on the desire to return this important ritual to its intended nature: unremarkable and methodical.
Reflecting on these past events made participants acutely aware of how fragile democracy can be, especially following the Capitol riots engineered by Trump supporters who echoed his claims of electoral fraud. This time, the atmosphere was one of acceptance of the election outcome. Many Republican lawmakers who had previously objected to the results of the 2020 election—like Rep. Lauren Boebert—found themselves taking part as supporters of Trump’s current victory.
“January 6th should be an unremarkable day,” said newly minted Senator Andy Kim, summarizing the collective hope shared among many Democrats. The necessity for calm certifies the faith of America’s democracy and redefines what the certification of electoral votes should signify.
Not only was Harris presiding over the certification as the first female vice president; her historic role was accentuated by the knowledge of what had transpired during her last term. She recounted her experience on January 6, 2021, when she was evacuated due to threats against not just the institution but her person, saying, “Our democracy can be fragile, and it is up to each of us to stand up for our most cherished principles.”
The session lasted about half an hour. Compared to the chaos of 2021, there were no procedural objections, no protests, and no calls for violence. Instead, the atmosphere was charged with collective duty and acknowledgment of the hard work by many to restore faith amid the debris of lost legitimacy from the previous year.
The 2024 election certification was not just another day on the political calendar; it was the culmination of numerous reforms enacted to cement the stability of future elections. Changes to the Electoral Count Act were made to bolster democratic processes and restrict potential disruptions.
Under the previous laws, any single member could raise objections to the electoral count. The new rules now require the backing of one-fifth from each chamber to challenge election outcomes, significantly increasing the threshold needed to be successful. This means objections can no longer be made frivolously or easily.
Throughout the proceedings, Vice President Harris was referred to as Madam President, marking the significant traditions and rituals inherent within the functioning of American democracy. These traditions serve as pillars holding up the democratic framework, reaffirming to the public and present lawmakers the importance of accountability, transparency, and peaceful transitions of power.
Despite Trump’s intimidating rhetoric surrounding his return, this day held the promise of normalcy. Incoming Vice President JD Vance—who witnessed the proceedings as the Senate continues to grapple with its delicate balance—echoed sentiments from various leaders who emphasized the importance witnessed throughout the election process and maintaining legislative integrity.
Following the certification, Trump made claims on social media, declaring the successful certification process as “A BIG MOMENT IN HISTORY.” He welcomed the passage of the nation’s adherence and commitment to democratic procedures and traditions, marking his comeback with the united affirmation from Congress.
Yet, as conversations are beginning to emerge on how to handle cases stemming back to January 6, the questions remain about the future of those charged and the tensions surrounding political narratives claiming victimhood. Attorney General Merrick Garland reaffirmed the continued effort to hold accountable those responsible, promising action against anyone undermining America's electoral democracy.
This certification is more than just counting votes; it is part of the passage of history, highlighting the lessons learned from one of the darkest times. For Harris, this symbolism fortified her role beyond ceremonial structure—shaping the very nature of American leadership and the principles it upholds.
Today, Congress successfully reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, restoring standards once taken for granted. And regardless of political alignments and beliefs, the emphasis on unity—especially amid diversity—stands as the significant takeaway: Democracy endures through both victories and defeats.