January 07, 2017•Update: January 08, 2017
By Michael Hernandez
WASHINGTON
A joint session of Congress on Friday certified Electoral College returns, cementing Donald Trump as the country’s president-elect.
The proceedings were largely symbolic. Trump had received well more than the 270 Electoral College votes needed to secure the office when electors met last month in their state capitals.
Some Democrats, however, objected to the proceedings Friday, but were denied action by Vice President Joe Biden who oversaw the session as President of the Senate.
"It's over," he said as Democrats pointed to long lines at polling stations, and alleged Russian interference in this presidential election.
The final tally put Trump at 304 Electoral College votes. His challenger, Hillary Clinton, received 227.
Trump will be sworn in Jan. 20.
