In a recent interview, Republican Congressman Dan Crenshaw of Texas addressed concerns about comments made by Republican conference chair Elise Stefanik regarding the certification of electoral votes on January 6, 2021. Stefanik expressed that, if she were vice president at the time, she would have rejected electoral votes. Crenshaw, a member of the House Intelligence Committee and a retired Navy SEAL, did not express worry about Stefanik potentially becoming Donald Trump's running mate, as he believed her claims to be incorrect.
Crenshaw emphasized that the Constitution grants no power to the vice president to decertify an election. He noted that the word 'certify' does not even appear in the Constitution. Crenshaw pointed out that even former Vice President Mike Pence, who had read and interpreted the Constitution, determined that he had no authority to decertify the election results. Crenshaw described the idea that Congress has the power to certify or decertify an election as completely erroneous, emphasizing that both Democrats and Republicans have misinterpreted the Constitution in such matters over the years.
The congressman also addressed hypothetical scenarios where a future vice president might hold different views on the Constitution's interpretation. Crenshaw expressed confidence that such a situation would not arise, as Donald Trump would not be eligible for reelection. However, he clarified that even if a vice president were to express differing beliefs during the certification process, their statements would hold no weight because they would be based on a false understanding of the Constitution.
Crenshaw further noted that Democrats had played a role in opening the door for such disputes by challenging election results in the past. He acknowledged the stability of the U.S. Constitution and the country itself, highlighting the peaceful transition of power that occurred despite the events of January 6th.
The congressman's remarks offered optimism about the resilience of the American political system, emphasizing that the Constitution provided a clear and stable procedure for electoral processes. He underscored that the role of the vice president is limited to opening and reading the electoral votes, without any certification powers. Crenshaw concluded by reaffirming his belief in the strength and stability of the nation's constitutional framework.
While the interviewer pointed out that no president had ever previously requested a vice president to reject electoral votes, Crenshaw concurred and reiterated that the Constitution does not provide the authority for such an action. The interview concluded with gratitude for the congressman's valuable insights on the matter.
