President Donald Trump conceded the November election Thursday night, one day after a mob of his supporters ransacked the U.S. Capitol as Congress was meeting to certify the results of the Electoral College. Lawmakers met hours after the complex had been secured to finish their work validating President-elect Joe Biden’s claim to the White House.
“Now Congress has certified the results, and a new administration will be inaugurated on Jan. 20,” Trump said in a White House message posted on Twitter. “My focus now turns to ensuring a smooth, orderly, and seamless transition of power.”
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2021
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The president began his remarks by forcefully condemning the rioters, who overwhelmed the U.S. Capitol building on his own behalf in a stunning display of lawlessness that was reminiscent of the militant social justice demonstrations last year.
“The demonstrators who infiltrated the Capitol have defiled the seat of American democracy,” Trump said. “To