On January 6, 2025, the U.S. Electoral College officially confirmed Donald J. Trump as the President-elect, receiving 312 electoral votes compared to Kamala Harris's 226. Vice President Harris oversaw the certification process, declaring the count sufficient for Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance to take their oaths of office on January 20.
The session lasted under 30 minutes, attended by 434 House members and all 100 senators. The results were read into the congressional record by four tellers, confirming their authenticity. Harris maintained a neutral demeanor throughout the proceedings, despite the political implications of the event.
This election cycle was marked by significant challenges for Harris, who succeeded President Biden mid-race but ultimately failed to secure vital swing states. Her electoral vote total was the lowest for a Democratic candidate since 1988, reflecting a broader loss for the party, which also lost control of the Senate and failed to retake the House.
Trump's victory was underscored by a popular vote win of 49.9% to 48.4%, marking the first time a Republican candidate had achieved this in two decades. The GOP celebrated the outcome as a mandate for their agenda, while Democrats faced scrutiny over their electoral strategies and messaging.
The certification took place in the context of heightened political tensions, particularly following the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Harris emphasized the importance of the peaceful transfer of power, a cornerstone of American democracy, while reflecting on the fragility of the electoral system.