A user’s manual to certifying the presidential election
The House and Senate are set to convene on Monday in a Joint Session of Congress to certify the results of the 2024 presidential election. This quadrennial event has taken on added significance in recent years due to the Capitol riot and the contentious certification process of the 2020 election.
Security measures have been increased around the Capitol complex, with 10-foot-high fencing erected to ensure the safety of lawmakers and staff. Vice President Kamala Harris, who remains in office until January 20, will preside over the Joint Session as President of the Senate.
The process of certifying the election results is outlined in the 12th Amendment to the Constitution. The Vice President, along with the Speaker of the House, will oversee the tabulation of the Electoral College votes. House Speaker Mike Johnson will co-preside over the session in the House chamber.
Unlike in previous years, the outcome of the 2024 election is not in dispute, and there is no expectation of additional challenges to the Electoral College results. The updated Electoral Count Act of 2022 clarified the role of the Vice President in the certification process and established stricter guidelines for contesting a state’s slate of electors.
The Joint Session is expected to run smoothly and efficiently, with Vice President Harris announcing the official results declaring Donald Trump as the winner of the election. The session is set to conclude in about an hour, with Vice President Harris dissolving the Joint Session.
Overall, the certification process of the 2024 election is expected to be a peaceful and orderly event, in contrast to the turmoil and violence that marred the certification of the 2020 election. The increased security measures and updated laws governing the certification process have helped ensure a smooth and efficient transition of power.
