The U.S. Capitol, surrounded by high-security measures including layers of black fencing, stood as a stark reminder of the January 6, 2021, attack where supporters of then-President Trump attempted to disrupt the certification process.

This year, no violence or procedural objections are anticipated as both Republicans and Democrats acknowledge Trump's decisive 312-226 Electoral College win over Vice President Kamala Harris. House Speaker Mike Johnson, once a key figure in Trump's 2020 election challenge, emphasized the commitment to proceed with the certification regardless of weather conditions, stating on Fox News, "Whether we’re in a blizzard or not, we are going to be in that chamber making sure this is done."

The day marks a return to the traditional peaceful transfer of power, albeit with significant historical context. Trump, now preparing for his second term, continues to deny his 2020 defeat, has floated ideas about extending presidential terms beyond the constitutional limits, and plans to potentially pardon those convicted in connection with the Capitol siege. The question lingers whether the chaos of 2021 was an aberration or if today's calm represents a new normal amidst America's deep political divides.

President Joe Biden, reflecting on the events of four years ago, called it "one of the toughest days in American history" and stressed the importance of returning to the norm of power transition. Still, the resilience of American democracy was on display as Congress prepared to affirm the voters' choice.

The certification process involved ceremonial mahogany boxes carrying state electoral certificates, a ritual that was hastily protected during the 2021 assault. Senators moved from the Senate to the House chamber to begin the count, with Vice President Harris presiding over her own electoral defeat, echoing past vice presidents like Al Gore and Richard Nixon.

New procedural safeguards under the revised Electoral Count Act now require a significant portion of Congress to object, a measure unlikely to be met given the current political climate. Security remains robust, akin to major national events, with no tourists allowed, but expectations are for a peaceful session.

Republicans, once vocal in their objections four years ago, now accept Trump's victory, with Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., noting the decisive nature of this win quelled previous doubts. Democrats, under the leadership of Hakeem Jeffries, have also moved away from election denialism, emphasizing patriotism in both victory and defeat.

The backdrop of this certification includes the aftermath of the 2021 riot, where leaders of groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys faced convictions for seditious conspiracy. Meanwhile, legal battles related to Trump's actions around the 2020 election have seen significant developments, with the special counsel withdrawing the case against Trump after his re-election.

Despite the calm expected today, the shadow of January 6, 2021, remains, with figures like Thompson and Cheney receiving recognition for their roles in investigating the event, while Trump has suggested those involved in the investigation should be imprisoned. This certification, therefore, is not just a procedural step but a reflection on the health and resilience of American democracy. (ILKHA)