abstract
| - The Bush campaign refuses to concede defeat, and recounts are ordered in several states, including Ohio, which Kerry won by less than one per cent which was the state that decided the election. By early December, recounts have completed, and the Kerry result stands. The Republicans gain seats in Congress despite Kerry's performance. The Republicans gain four House seats and four Senate seats.
* December 13, 2004: The Electoral College meets and formally elects John Kerry as President and John Edwards as Vice President.
* December 15, 2004: Senator Kerry officially resigns from the United States Senate. On December 19, Governor Romney of Massachusetts chooses Lieutenant-Governor Kerry Healey, a fellow Republican, to replace Kerry in the Senate. This is seen as the first major blow to Kerry, who has been dealt a slap in the face before he has even been sworn in. Vice-President-elect Edwards is not replaced by the Governor, since he did not seek re-election. He continues as a Senator until his term expires on 3rd January.
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