Washington, D.C. – Congress will formally certify President-elect Biden's victory on Monday, a day that marks the fourth anniversary of the January 6th Capitol riot. Security is heightened across the nation's capital, with a significant presence of law enforcement and the National Guard.
The 2021 attack, driven by false claims of election fraud, saw rioters clash with law enforcement, leading to the deaths of five people and extensive damage to the Capitol building. This event is considered one of the darkest days in American history.
The certification process, mandated by federal law, will begin with the presentation of electoral vote records. These records, transported in mahogany boxes, will be opened and read aloud, solidifying Biden's victory. Despite the prior attempts by President Trump to overturn the results, no such challenges are expected this time.
Security measures are extensive and robust, reflecting the anniversary of the insurrection. The unprecedented security measures are in place to prevent a repeat of the 2021 events.
Vice President Harris, tasked with presiding over the certification, will officially acknowledge Biden's victory in a largely expected and non-contentious procedure. In contrast to 2021, there have been no reported attempts to challenge the results.
This year's ceremony is anticipated to proceed smoothly, despite a looming snowstorm, with law enforcement prepared for potential disruptions. The inauguration of the new president is scheduled for the following two weeks.
President Biden has previously reflected on the January 6th attack, emphasizing the resilience of American democracy in the face of such a grave assault.