Congress is set to convene on January 6, 2025, for a joint session to formally certify the results of the 2024 presidential election, securing the victory of President-elect Donald Trump. While the process is typically routine, it has garnered heightened attention following the events of January 6, 2021. Here’s a comprehensive look at how the certification works, what to expect this year, and the key changes since the tumultuous certification of the 2020 election.
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What is the Electoral College Certification?
The Electoral College certification is a formal procedure in which Congress counts the electoral votes cast by electors from each state. It is a constitutional duty to ensure the results of the presidential election are confirmed.
In 2024, after the November election, each state was required to finalize its results by December 11, 2024, marking “Safe Harbor Day.” On December 17, 2024, the 538 members of the Electoral College cast their votes, which were then sent to Congress for formal counting.
Step-by-Step Process of Certification
Opening of the Joint Session: On January 6, both the House of Representatives and the Senate convene for a joint session. The Vice President, Kamala Harris, will preside over the proceedings.
Reading the Electoral Votes: The certified election results from each state are presented in sealed envelopes. Tellers, one Democrat and one Republican from each chamber open the envelopes and announce the electoral votes.
Handling Objections: Members of Congress may object to the results. For an objection to be taken seriously, it must be submitted in writing with the support of one-fifth of each chamber. If an objection is raised, the chambers will debate it separately and vote on whether to uphold the objection. However, no objections are expected to succeed this year.
Conclusion of the Certification: Once all votes have been read and no objections remain, the Vice President will announce the final tally and confirm the results. The session will then conclude, formally certifying the election.
What Changed from the 2020 Certification?
The events of January 6, 2021, where rioters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to overturn the 2020 election results, led to significant changes in the law. In response, Congress passed the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act of 2022.
This law clarified that the Vice President has no authority to influence the outcome of the certification process. Legal clarifications were also made to tighten procedures and prevent challenges to the results that could disrupt the process.
Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security has declared the certification event a “National Special Security Event,” ensuring increased security and preparedness.
The 2024 Certification in Context
While the certification of the 2024 election is expected to be much less contentious than in 2021, potential weather disruptions in Washington, D.C., could affect attendance. However, no significant challenges to the election results are anticipated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a state’s electoral votes are contested?
If a member of Congress objects, one-fifth of the members in both chambers must support it. The objection will be debated separately in each chamber, and if a majority votes in favor, the results could be altered.
What role does the Vice President play during the certification?
The Vice President presides over the joint session of Congress and announces the final Electoral College tally. However, the Vice President does not have the authority to change or influence the results.
Why was the Electoral Count Reform Act passed?
The reform was introduced following the events of January 6, 2021, to clarify that the Vice President cannot overturn election results and to close legal loopholes that could be exploited to challenge certified results.
What happens after the certification is complete?
Once the Electoral College results are certified, the President-elect officially becomes the winner. Two weeks later, on January 20, 2025, the inauguration will mark the formal transfer of power.
How long does the certification process typically take?
The length of the certification process can vary. In 2017, it took just over 30 minutes. However, depending on the number of objections or exceptional circumstances, it may take longer.
Conclusion
The certification of the 2024 Electoral College votes will be an essential step in finalizing President-elect Donald Trump’s victory. While the process is mainly ceremonial, the events of January 6, 2021, have led to tighter legal frameworks and increased security measures to ensure a smooth and peaceful certification. As the nation awaits the formal conclusion of the electoral process, attention will shift toward the upcoming inauguration and the transition of power.