US Electoral college formally elects Donald Trump as president

The US Electoral College has certified Donald Trump as president, despite a last-ditch effort to deny him the White House.Six weeks after winning the polls, the Republican has secured the 270 votes needed to formalise his victory. 

The process is usually a formality, but was beset this year by claims



Russian hackers tried to sway the public vote.The result will be officially announced on 6th January in a special joint session of Congress.

Under US law, electors must formally vote for the president and vice-president before they can lead the country. Mr Trump formally takes office on January 20.