What Happens Between Now and Inauguration Day?

Between now and Inauguration Day, various political, logistical, and ceremonial processes take place. The incoming administration prepares to take office, including selecting key officials, finalizing policy plans, and ensuring a smooth transition. The outgoing administration also assists in the transfer of power. These events are vital to ensuring a seamless handover of responsibilities and maintaining the continuity of governance in the U.S.

Here’s what’s happening between now and Inauguration Day:‍

American voters have made their choice, re-electing Donald Trump as President of the United States. However, he will not assume office until January 20, 2025, and several important events will unfold between now and then. A transition will take place between President Joe Biden’s outgoing administration and Trump’s incoming one, although Trump’s failure to meet certain legal deadlines has complicated this process.

Trump faces sentencing for his felony conviction and several other legal uncertainties. Prior to becoming president-elect, he was convicted of 34 counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made to an adult film star before the 2016 election. His sentencing is scheduled for November 26. However, Judge Juan Merchan could potentially overturn the conviction as early as November 12, due to a Supreme Court ruling granting presidential immunity. While the conviction could result in prison time, it is unlikely Trump will face incarceration. He may instead receive probation or a fine.

In addition to this conviction, Trump is dealing with a vast array of other legal challenges. He faces federal charges related to attempting to overturn the 2020 election results and mishandling classified documents. These cases, however, are likely to be delayed or dismissed. Furthermore, Trump may be required to pay hundreds of millions in damages for separate business fraud and defamation lawsuits, and he is also named in lawsuits filed by Capitol Police officers injured during the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.

The Electoral College must cast its votes. While American voters cast their ballots on November 5, that was only one step in the process. States have until December 11 to confirm their election results with Certificates of Ascertainment. On December 17, electors from all 50 states and Washington, DC, will meet in their respective state capitals to cast the official 538 Electoral College votes.

The government requires funding. A temporary government funding bill passed before the election only covers the period through December 20. Lawmakers will need to convene during the “lame-duck” session to ensure the government remains funded.

The new Congress will take office. While it is unclear which party will control the House of Representatives, Republicans will have the majority in the Senate. On January 3, newly elected lawmakers will be sworn in to begin the 119th Congress.

The Electoral College votes will be counted. On January 6, 2025, both the new House and Senate will meet in the House chamber, where Vice President Kamala Harris will preside over the counting of the Electoral College votes that officially make Trump the president. This marks the first time since Al Gore in 2001 that a vice president will preside over the certification of their own defeat.

Finally, Trump will be sworn in. At noon on January 20, 2025, he will take the oath of office on the west front of the US Capitol. After his four-year term, a new president will succeed him on January 20, 2029.

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Source: CNN‍