Lame duck

3 key takeaways

• A lame duck is an official whose successor has been chosen, limiting their political influence.
• The term is commonly used to describe U.S. presidents in the final period of their term after a new president has been elected.
• Lame duck sessions in legislative bodies can lead to significant decision-making or political maneuvering due to the official’s impending departure.

What is a lame duck?

The term “lame duck” refers to an elected official who remains in office during the period between the election of their successor and the end of their own term. This period often sees the official’s power and influence wane, as attention shifts to the incoming officeholder. The term is most commonly associated with U.S. presidents who have lost re-election or are completing their second term and are therefore unable to run again.

Origins and usage

The phrase “lame duck” originated in the 18th century London Stock Exchange, where it described investors who were unable to pay their debts. It was later adopted in U.S. politics to describe politicians who are nearing the end of their term and have diminished political clout.

Lame duck presidents

In the context of the U.S. presidency, a lame duck president is one who is nearing the end of their term after a successor has been elected. This period, typically from early November until the inauguration of the new president on January 20th, is marked by a reduction in the president’s effectiveness and influence. Outgoing presidents may focus on securing their legacy, issuing executive orders, or making last-minute appointments.

Lame duck sessions

Lame duck sessions refer to the period when the outgoing Congress meets after the election of new members but before the end of their term. During these sessions, significant legislative decisions can be made, as outgoing members may be more willing to vote on controversial issues without concern for re-election.

Implications of a lame duck period

Reduced influence

A lame duck official often faces reduced influence and bargaining power. Their ability to pass legislation or implement new policies may be hindered as colleagues, stakeholders, and the public focus on the incoming administration.

Legacy building

During the lame duck period, officials may concentrate on cementing their legacy. This can involve making policy decisions, issuing pardons, or finalizing key initiatives that they hope will define their time in office.

Political maneuvering

The lame duck period can also lead to political maneuvering, as both outgoing and incoming officials position themselves for future roles. Outgoing officials might make appointments or policy changes that align with their party’s interests, while incoming officials prepare to implement their agendas.

Examples of lame duck periods

U.S. presidency

A notable example of a lame duck period is the final months of a U.S. president’s term after the election of their successor. For instance, President Barack Obama became a lame duck after the election of Donald Trump in November 2016, focusing on securing his policy achievements and preparing for the transition.

Legislative bodies

Lame duck sessions in Congress can result in significant legislative activity. For example, during the 2010 lame duck session, the U.S. Congress passed important legislation, including the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy and the ratification of the New START treaty with Russia.

Related topics

• Transition of power: Explore the process and significance of transitioning from one administration to another.
• Executive orders: Learn about the use of executive orders by outgoing presidents to influence policy during the lame duck period.
• Political succession: Understand the mechanisms and implications of political succession in various governmental systems.

The lame duck period is a unique phase in the political cycle, marked by reduced influence for outgoing officials and significant opportunities for legacy-building and political maneuvering. Understanding this period helps in comprehending the dynamics of power transitions and the strategic actions of elected officials.