A coalition of more than a dozen GOP lawmakers in both the House and Senate are gearing up for a fight during Congress’ joint session, a battle they are likely to lose but that has caused a stir for opponents unhappy with the challenge to the results of the presidential election. The effort by some Republicans is a last-ditch show of unwavering loyalty to President Trump, who has lobbed numerous unsubstantiated claims and filed several lawsuits in battleground states blaming widespread voter fraud for his November loss.

Meanwhile, a source familiar with Wednesday’s vote told Fox News McConnell plans to be one of the first speakers to object to initial challenges by colleagues in his own party, driving home the importance of certifying the votes — which have been approved by all 50 states — and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power.

In private, McConnell has warned Republicans — many of whom will be up for reelection in 2022 — the grave political ramifications of attempting to stymie Biden’s transition into the White House but has publicly shied away from going toe-to-toe with the president.

However, President Trump has publically voiced his opposition to McConnell and other top Republicans:

Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri will challenge the Pennsylvania results, Senator Kelly Loeffler — who lost her reelection bid against the radical Raphael Warnock — will challenge the Georgia results, and Senator Ted Cruz will challenge Arizona’s results.