WASHINGTON (AP) — As Congress gathers during a winter storm to officially confirm President-elect Donald Trump’s election victory, the shadow of Jan. 6 looms large over the proceedings, marked by a remarkable fact: the candidate who previously sought to overturn the election results has now emerged victorious and is set to assume power legitimately.
Lawmakers will convene at noon on Monday under the highest national security alert level. The U.S. Capitol complex is enclosed by layers of tall black fencing, serving as a stark reminder of the events from four years ago when a defeated Trump instigated his supporters to “fight like hell,” leading to the violent assault on the heart of American democracy, the most severe in two centuries.
Unlike the tumultuous scenes of the past, no acts of violence, protests, or objections to the certification are anticipated during this session of Congress. Even prominent Republicans who contested the 2020 election results, when Trump lost to Democrat Joe Biden, have accepted the outcome this time after his win over Vice President Kamala Harris. Similarly, Democrats, despite their frustrations over Trump’s Electoral College victory, acknowledge the decision made by American voters.
Despite a snowstorm approaching the region, the certification process on Jan. 6 is expected to proceed as planned, ensuring a peaceful transition of power. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a key figure in Trump’s election challenges, emphasized the importance of upholding this tradition, regardless of external circumstances.
Amid Trump’s impending return to office with renewed confidence, fueled by his refusal to acknowledge defeat in the previous election, concerns linger about the implications of his continued hold on power. His plans to pardon individuals involved in the Capitol siege further highlight the uncertainty surrounding his leadership and its impact on the country.
The events of Jan. 6, 2021, pose a pivotal question: was it an isolated incident of domestic unrest, or a harbinger of ongoing challenges to American democracy? As the nation grapples with internal divisions and global threats to democratic principles, the need for vigilance and unity remains crucial.
President Biden, reflecting on the events of Jan. 6, described it as one of the darkest days in American history, emphasizing the imperative of preserving the peaceful transfer of power. He underscored the dangers posed by attempts to subvert democracy and expressed hope for a return to stability and respect for democratic norms.
As Congress prepares to affirm the will of the American people through the ceremonial process of certifying the electoral votes, the nation stands at a critical juncture, where the resilience of its democratic institutions will be tested once again. The day is expected to unfold with the familiar rituals and symbolism that symbolize the continuity of American democracy, signaling a reaffirmation of democratic values and principles in the face of unprecedented challenges.
The Capitol, where chaos erupted four years ago with rioters roaming the halls, some defecating and menacing leaders, while others clashed with police, is now the setting for the House to certify the vote. Vice President Harris, following protocol, will oversee the counting and confirm her own defeat, similar to past instances like Democrat Al Gore in 2001 and Republican Richard Nixon in 1961. She will stand at the same dais where Speaker Pelosi was hurried to safety during the previous chaos, as the mob closed in, and shots were fired, resulting in the death of Ashli Babbitt.
Procedural changes have been implemented since the events of four years ago when Republicans contested election results based on unfounded claims of fraud instigated by Trump. The updated Electoral Count Act now requires one-fifth of lawmakers to raise objections, tightening the process. Security measures are in place, resembling those of major events like the Super Bowl or the Olympics, with law enforcement on high alert to prevent any intrusions.
Despite past challenges to election results, Republicans who once met with Trump to strategize against his defeat have now acknowledged his victory this time. Democrats, too, have no plans to object, emphasizing their commitment to the democratic process and rejecting election denialism. Symbolic objections raised in previous elections are absent this time around.
The previous breach of the Capitol involved far-right militias and resulted in violence and chaos, with some individuals facing legal consequences. However, those who led legal challenges against Trump’s defeat continue to support their actions, with some even celebrated in Trump’s circles. Trump himself faced impeachment for inciting insurrection but was acquitted by the Senate. McConnell, while critical of Trump’s role in the Capitol siege, left the matter to the courts. Subsequently, federal prosecutors indicted Trump on multiple counts related to his actions.
During the election, special counsel Jack Smith pursued charges, including conspiracy to defraud the United States, against former President Trump. However, Smith had to scale back the case following a Supreme Court decision affirming a president’s broad immunity for actions taken while in office. Smith ultimately withdrew the case after Trump’s reelection, in accordance with Justice Department guidelines prohibiting the prosecution of sitting presidents.
As one of his final acts in office, President Biden presented the Presidential Citizens Medal to Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) and former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.). Thompson and Cheney had served as the chair and vice chair, respectively, of the congressional committee that investigated the events of January 6, 2021.
In response, Trump voiced his opinion that those involved with the January 6 committee should face incarceration.
(End of text. Associated Press writers Fatima Hussein and Ashraf Khalil contributed to this report.)
