Kamala Harris faces a pivotal, constitutionally mandated role in the aftermath of the presidential election: to certify the results, regardless of the outcome. While her own fate in the race is uncertain, it will fall solely to the Vice President to officially declare the election’s winner.
"The Constitution names the vice president of the United States as the president of the Senate. In addition to serving as presiding officer, the vice president … formally presides over the receiving and counting of electoral ballots cast in presidential elections," the Senate website says.
Complete coverage-Trump vs Harris for US president
The vice president’s role in certifying the presidential election result has often been a source of tension and drama in US history.
The vice president's role in certifying election results came into sharp focus during the 2020 election, when then-President Donald Trump pressured Vice President Mike Pence not to certify Joe Biden's victory. Despite intense pressure from Trump and his allies, Pence maintained that his duty was to formally certify the results, adhering to the constitutional process. His decision to follow the law, despite the political heat, became a defining moment in the aftermath of the election and the events of January 6, 2021.
During the certification of the 2000 presidential election, over 20 objections were raised by members of the House of Representatives, all seeking to challenge the result.
However, Vice President Al Gore, who was overseeing the certification, dismissed each objection, noting that they lacked the required support from at least one Senator.
This dramatic scene unfolded after 36 tumultuous days following the November 7 election, where the outcome in Florida was fiercely contested between Gore and Republican George W Bush. The standoff over the Florida vote count ultimately led to a Supreme Court decision, sealing Bush's victory.
"The Constitution names the vice president of the United States as the president of the Senate. In addition to serving as presiding officer, the vice president … formally presides over the receiving and counting of electoral ballots cast in presidential elections," the Senate website says.
Complete coverage-Trump vs Harris for US president
The vice president’s role in certifying the presidential election result has often been a source of tension and drama in US history.
The vice president's role in certifying election results came into sharp focus during the 2020 election, when then-President Donald Trump pressured Vice President Mike Pence not to certify Joe Biden's victory. Despite intense pressure from Trump and his allies, Pence maintained that his duty was to formally certify the results, adhering to the constitutional process. His decision to follow the law, despite the political heat, became a defining moment in the aftermath of the election and the events of January 6, 2021.
During the certification of the 2000 presidential election, over 20 objections were raised by members of the House of Representatives, all seeking to challenge the result.
However, Vice President Al Gore, who was overseeing the certification, dismissed each objection, noting that they lacked the required support from at least one Senator.
This dramatic scene unfolded after 36 tumultuous days following the November 7 election, where the outcome in Florida was fiercely contested between Gore and Republican George W Bush. The standoff over the Florida vote count ultimately led to a Supreme Court decision, sealing Bush's victory.
You may also like
US election result 2024: List of states won by Donald Trump
Common mistake can make your coffee and tea taste bad, experts reveal
New Mexico US presidential election results 2024
Inside Harry and Meghan's struggle to find £231-an-hour fish specialist for £12m mansion
UP SHOCKER! Constable, his wife pulls woman shopkeeper by hair, thrashes her after fight over dues (WATCH)
