20th Amendment

The 20th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1933, changed the dates for when the President and Congress begin their terms. Originally, Presidents took office on March 4; the amendment moved this to January 20. It also established January 3 as the start date for Congress. This shift aimed to reduce the "lame-duck" period—time when outgoing officials remain in office without real power—ensuring a quicker transition of leadership after elections, thereby enhancing government efficiency and responsiveness.