US Congress formally certifies Joe Biden's election win

U.S. lawmakers on Jan. 7 formally certified Joe Biden as the winner of the presidential election - clearing the way for his inauguration on January 20.    

Republican Vice President Mike Pence certified the Electoral College count of 306 electors in favor of the Democrat against 232 in favor of outgoing Republican President Donald Trump.    

Trump now said there "will be an orderly transition on January 20th" after Congress concluded the electoral vote count certifying Biden's victory.

He said in a statement tweeted by his social media director Dan Scavino, "Even though I totally disagree with the outcome of the election, and the facts bear me out, nevertheless there will be an orderly transition on January 20th."

He added: "I have always said we would continue our fight to ensure that only legal votes were counted. While this represents the end of the greatest first term in presidential history, it's only the beginning of our fight to Make America Great Again."

The tally followed a joint session of the House and Senate that was interrupted by supporters of the president who stormed the U.S. Capitol, bringing violence and mayhem to the seat of government.

"Where are they?" a Trump supporter demanded in a crowd of dozens roaming the halls of the Capitol, bearing Trump flags and pounding on doors.

They, lawmakers, staff members and more, were hiding under tables, hunkered in lockdowns, saying prayers and seeing the fruits of the country's divisions up close and violent.

Guns were drawn. A woman was shot and killed by police, and three others died in apparent medical emergencies. A Trump flag hung on the Capitol. The graceful Rotunda reeked of tear gas. Glass shattered.

On Jan. 6, hallowed spaces of...