Certifying Trump’s Win Without Turmoil
On January 6, Congress gathered to certify Donald Trump’s presidential victory, marking a stark contrast to the chaos of 2021. Four years after the Capitol riot, the proceedings unfolded peacefully. Lawmakers tallied electoral votes to confirm Trump’s win over Vice President Kamala Harris. Unlike the violent scenes of his first inauguration’s aftermath, this time no angry mobs stormed barricades or clashed with police.
Senator Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., described the event as a “nonevent,” highlighting the absence of protests or resistance. Trump’s victory in both the Electoral College and the popular vote, combined with a lack of fraud allegations from his campaign, set the tone for an orderly process.
The Capitol, however, carried the weight of memories from January 6, 2021. That day, supporters of Trump attempted to overturn Joe Biden’s victory, resulting in the most violent attack on the U.S. government since 1812. Today, the events of that day remain a divisive chapter in American history.
Trump’s Promises: Pardons and Political Plans
Trump, now preparing for his second term, continues to polarize opinions with his statements and actions. During his campaign, he pledged to pardon those convicted in connection with the Capitol attack. More than 1,600 individuals faced charges for their involvement, and federal prosecutors secured over 1,000 convictions, including 645 prison sentences. Trump’s promises have fueled debates about justice and accountability.
Critics, such as Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., warned that pardons could undermine constitutional democracy. “No one has identified any injustice in prosecuting those who violently assaulted officers or engaged in sedition,” Raskin stated. Rep. Seth Magaziner, D-R.I., echoed these concerns, arguing that such pardons could embolden further lawbreaking under Trump’s banner.
Trump, who became the first president with a criminal record after his 2023 conviction on hush-money payments, has repeatedly claimed to champion the “unjustly victimized.” His victory in November, following the dismissal of federal charges related to classified documents and election interference, further galvanized his supporters.
Revisiting January 6: A Divisive Legacy
As Trump’s second term begins, reflections on January 6 continue to shape public discourse. For some, the day represents a violent attack on democracy. For others, it symbolizes courage and resistance. Harvard professor Alexander Keyssar noted that interpretations of the riot often align with political affiliations. “For a significant chunk of the population, it will be remembered as an assault on democracy,” he said. “But for others, it may symbolize heroism and defiance.”
Keyssar likened the differing views to how Americans have debated the Civil War for over a century. “In some parts of the South, it’s still called the war of northern aggression,” he remarked, drawing parallels to how January 6 might be framed in future historical narratives.
Trump’s return to power and his rhetoric around the Capitol attack are expected to deepen these divisions. His allies view his victory as vindication of grievances over the 2020 election, while opponents warn of the risks to democratic norms. Rep. Raskin emphasized that no president should weaponize their office against political adversaries. “The American Constitution ensures no kings or emperors. Leaders don’t jail people for opposing them,” he said.
A Polarized Future
Trump’s inauguration on January 20 will undoubtedly spotlight these unresolved tensions. His promises to revisit January 6-related cases and his statements about political opponents signal an administration poised to challenge traditional norms. While Trump’s supporters celebrate his return, his critics caution against further erosion of democratic principles.
As America enters a new Trump era, the shadow of January 6 looms large. How the nation reconciles its past with its present will shape the legacy of both Trump’s presidency and the events that have defined this tumultuous chapter in American history.