In a historic moment, Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the joint session of Congress certifying Donald Trump's 2024 presidential election victory, marking a peaceful transition of power. This act echoes similar events in US history, with Harris becoming the third vice president in recent times to oversee the confirmation of their own electoral defeat. Harris emphasized her commitment to upholding this "sacred obligation," guided by patriotism, constitutional loyalty, and faith in the American people.

In a pre-recorded message, the Vice President acknowledged the fragility of democracy, referencing the 2021 Capitol attack and underscoring the importance of defending democratic principles. The attack, which followed Trump's rally where he reiterated unsubstantiated claims of election fraud, highlighted the importance of the peaceful transfer of power.

Harris follows in the footsteps of former Vice Presidents Al Gore (2000) and Richard Nixon (1960), who also presided over the certification of their respective election losses to George W. Bush and John F. Kennedy.

President Biden, in remarks made the previous evening, echoed Harris's commitment to a smooth transition of power, emphasizing the importance of remembering and acknowledging the events of January 6th. He urged newly elected Democratic members of Congress to uphold the truth and prevent the historical significance of the Capitol attack from being distorted or forgotten.