Today, I will undertake one of the most solemn duties as a member of Congress: certifying the Electoral College results – and the more than 81 million free and fair votes – that will make Joe Biden the next president of the United States.

But what should be a celebratory and revered moment in our democracy will be marked by disdain for our Constitution, as at least 140 of my Republican colleagues in the House, along with 14 Republican senators, plan to object to certifying the Electoral College votes. 

In doing so, a meaningful number of Republicans, elected to some of the highest positions in public office, are unleashing a blatant attack on everything this country stands for. They are rejecting democracy in favor of baseless lies, conspiracies and sycophancy for President Trump. 

We are turning the page on the Trump presidency, but the ills of Trumpism itself must be rejected within the halls of Congress. That’s why today, in the face of this Republican-led affront to our democracy, we must speak out with one voice. Please join me by answering one simple question:

Thank you. With pride, I will do the right thing today – what our Constitution demands of me. Any member of Congress that does otherwise must be held accountable. 

Congresswoman Val Demings