20th Amendment and Lame-Duck Period

The video explains the 20th Amendment, which shortened the lame-duck period for presidents and Congress members. Before the amendment, there was a four-month delay between elections and inaugurations, leading to potential inaction or unpopular decisions by outgoing politicians. The amendment, proposed in 1932 and adopted in 1933, outlines new terms for presidential and congressional transitions, including procedures if a president-elect cannot assume office.

What was the main purpose of the 20th Amendment?

• To change the election process

• To abolish the electoral college

• To shorten the lame-duck period

• To extend the term of the President

Why is the lame-duck period considered problematic?

• It leads to a lack of action and potential for unpopular decisions

• It increases the power of the judiciary

• It shortens the term of elected officials

• It allows for too many new laws to be passed

What is a potential consequence of a long lame-duck period?

• Increased voter turnout

• Delayed implementation of new policies

• Greater political stability

• More frequent elections

When was the 20th Amendment proposed and adopted?

• Proposed in 1933, adopted in 1934

• Proposed in 1930, adopted in 1931

• Proposed in 1932, adopted in 1933

• Proposed in 1931, adopted in 1932

What does Section 1 of the 20th Amendment specify?

• The qualifications for the President

• The end dates for the terms of the President and Congress

• The powers of the Vice President

• The election process for Congress

According to Section 2, when must Congress assemble each year?

• On March 1st

• On February 1st

• On January 3rd

• On January 1st

What happens if the President-elect dies before taking office, according to Section 3?

• A new election is held

• The current President remains in office

• The Vice President-elect becomes President

• Congress appoints a new President

What does Section 4 of the 20th Amendment address?

• The process for declaring war

• The powers of the Supreme Court

• The procedure for selecting a President if no candidate wins a majority

• The qualifications for Congress members

What is the significance of Section 5 in the 20th Amendment?

• It outlines the impeachment process

• It specifies when Sections 1 and 2 take effect

• It sets the date for the next election

• It details the powers of the President

How does Section 6 of the 20th Amendment contribute to its implementation?

• It provides instructions for ratification

• It increases the term length for Congress

• It changes the voting age

• It abolishes the Senate