Harris oversees certification of Trump’s victory, calls it a ‘good day’ for democracy

There was no drama on Monday as Kamala Harris oversaw the ceremonial certification of her defeat to Donald Trump. The US vice-president kept her remarks perfunctory, and she stood with her hands clasped in front of her while the results from each state were read out loud.

After less than half an hour, she formally announced that Trump had won the election. She smiled tightly as Republicans applauded.

“The chair declares this joint session resolved,” Harris said. “Thank you.”

The process was in stark contrast to the January 6, 2021, violence as Trump’s mob of supporters stormed the US Capitol as lawmakers were certifying his defeat to Joe Biden. This time, everyone honoured the results of the election.

“It’s a peaceful transfer of power,” Harris told reporters as she left the building on Monday. “It’s a good day.”