Lame Duck Day

Lame Duck Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to the 20th Amendment of the US Congress. This amendment reduced the time between congressional elections and politicians taking office. This period is commonly referred to as the “lame duck” period. The holiday is annually on February 6th.

History

In nature, a “lame duck” is an individual that cannot keep up with its flock. Such a duck remains alone, exposing itself to great danger from predators. A similar term began to be applied to people in the 18th century. At that time, the concept of a “lame duck” referred to stockbrokers who could not pay their debts.

In the 1860s, “lame ducks” began to describe officials nearing the end of their term of office. They needed to take some action if they wanted to be re-elected. However, their capabilities were now severely limited. To avoid embarrassing situations or illegal actions by officials who had lost power during the waiting period, the 20th Amendment of the US Congress, passed in 1933, reduced the waiting time between the end of the term of office and the new acquisition as much as possible.

Interesting facts

• The term “lame duck” is widely popular in society. Many artists depicted it in their caricatures in relation to political figures, often as ducks with bandages and crutches.
• A “lame duck” in the United States is also often referred to as a politician who is not destined to run for a second term due to very poor performance in the past term.

How to celebrate

Search for Lame Duck Day online for information on various precedents related to the US transition. Check out existing cartoons on this topic. Share new information with family and friends. You can also celebrate this day literally by transferring donations to conservation organizations that care for wild ducks.

Tell others about the holiday on social media. Ask other users if they were familiar with the concept of a “lame duck”.

When is Lame Duck Day in 2025?

Lame Duck Day is observed on February 6 each year.

Observations