Members of Congress are concerned about potential violence in the upcoming presidential election, fueled by fears that former President Donald Trump may challenge the results if he loses to Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump’s false claims about voter fraud led to the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Despite facing felony charges for his attempts to overturn the 2020 election, Trump and his allies are once again stirring fears about illegal voting and refusing to commit to accepting the results of the upcoming election.
The potential for another violent event like the January 6 insurrection seems smaller this time around, with increased security measures in place and new regulations that make it more challenging for members of Congress to challenge electoral results. The Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022 raised the threshold for objections to electoral votes, making it less likely that a lengthy debate would occur on the Senate floor. While these reforms are seen as critical in preventing another January 6 scenario, there is still concern that Trump could try to rally a mob and incite violence if he loses the election.
Some Republican lawmakers, including those who challenged the 2020 election results, may still attempt to challenge electoral votes in the event of a Trump loss. Senators like Josh Hawley and Rick Scott, who previously objected to the results, have not ruled out doing so again if they perceive widespread voter fraud. However, there are bipartisan efforts among members of Congress to uphold the results of the 2024 election, with more than 30 House members, including several Republicans, pledging to accept the outcome. Despite these pledges, some lawmakers remain hesitant to commit to upholding the election results until they see the outcome.
Trump has continued to spread lies about the 2020 election being stolen, threatening legal action against those he believes cheated in the election. He has also declined to acknowledge his loss in the last election and has warned of potential jail time for his opponents if he wins in 2024. His rhetoric and actions have raised concerns among lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, with many fearing that Trump’s refusal to accept defeat could lead to further violence and unrest. The upcoming election and its aftermath remain a source of tension and uncertainty in Congress as lawmakers brace for potential challenges to electoral results.
