On January 6, 2025, Congress will convene to certify Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, marking four years since Trump’s supporters rioted at the U.S. Capitol in response to his 2020 defeat. Unlike the tumultuous events of 2021, this certification is expected to proceed without violence or chaos, as Harris, presiding over the session, has not challenged the election results or engaged in misinformation, which characterized Trump’s actions back then.
With the Capitol under heightened security due to the historical significance of the date, past confrontations are fresh in memory. The Homeland Security Department has classified January 6, 2025, as a “National Special Security Event,” emphasizing the heavy precautions in place. Additionally, many individuals remain incarcerated for their involvement in the 2021 riot, with over 1,580 charged and approximately 1,270 convicted in the largest investigation of its kind.
Trump, who was impeached for inciting the Capitol attack, promises to consider pardons for those involved, though he notes possible exceptions. Attorney General Merrick Garland reiterated the commitment of the Justice Department to hold accountable those responsible for the attack on democracy.
