The certification of the 2024 U.S. election results, which officially confirmed Donald Trump as the winner, sparked a range of reactions from local politicians, reflecting the deep partisan divides in the country. While the process itself is typically ceremonial, the significance of this certification was heightened due to the political context surrounding the event.
Reactions from Democrats
Many Democratic representatives used the occasion to reflect on the events of January 6, 2021, and emphasized the importance of protecting democracy. For instance:
- U.S. Rep. James Clyburn condemned the actions of 2021, highlighting the contrast between the certification of this election and the Republican attempts to deny the results four years ago.
- S.C. Rep. Hamilton Grant denounced any attempt to ignore the events of January 6, calling it “un-American.”
- S.C. Sen. Tameika Isaac Devine took to Twitter to celebrate Eugene Goodman, the Capitol Police officer whose bravery during the January 6th riot gained widespread recognition.
- The South Carolina Democratic Party issued a statement underscoring their commitment to defending constitutional freedoms against what they described as ongoing attacks from Trump and his allies.
Reactions from Republicans
On the other hand, many Republicans were celebratory, framing the certification as a moment of political triumph for Trump. Notable comments included:
- U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson called it an honor to certify the results and emphasized Trump’s electoral victory as a landslide.
- U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham expressed his support for the certification and Trump’s presidency, humorously referencing Trump’s joke about Canada potentially becoming the 51st state.
- U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman tweeted his enthusiasm, calling the certification a “GREAT DAY for America.
- U.S. Sen. Tim Scott and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette both congratulated Trump and his running mate, JD Vance, while expressing eagerness for the inauguration.
The certification marks the final procedural step before Trump’s swearing-in on January 20. Despite the mixed reactions, the event highlighted the enduring political and ideological divides in the nation, with both sides reaffirming their positions on the future direction of the country.