Which amendment shortened the lame duck period for newly elected Presidents in the United States?

The 20th Amendment, ratified in 1933, specifically addresses the issue of the lame duck period for newly elected Presidents and members of Congress. Before this amendment, Presidents were elected in November but did not take office until March of the following year, resulting in a lengthy period where outgoing officials had limited accountability and incoming officials had to wait to implement their agendas.

The 20th Amendment reduced the time between the election and the inauguration by moving the start date of the presidential term from March 4 to January 20. This change aimed to minimize the inefficiencies and potential for legislative inaction during the transition period, providing a more immediate transfer of power and enabling newly elected officials to engage with pressing issues more promptly. The amendment also adjusted the start date for congressional sessions, promoting a more functional government continuity.