Which amendment defined the timeline for the commencement of presidential and congressional terms, notably during Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration?

Which amendment defined the timeline for the commencement of presidential and congressional terms, notably during Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration?

• A. 18th Amendment
• B. 19th Amendment
• C. 20th Amendment
• D. 21st Amendment

Answer: (C)

The 20th Amendment, ratified in 1933, is the correct choice as it specifically addresses the timeline for the commencement of presidential and congressional terms. This amendment was significant during Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration, as it aimed to reduce the time that "lame duck" politicians—those who have been defeated or are not seeking reelection—remain in office after an election. Prior to the passage of the 20th Amendment, presidential terms began on March 4th, which meant that newly elected presidents had to wait several months after the election to take office. The amendment moved the inauguration date from March 4th to January 20th, thereby allowing a more efficient transition of power. Additionally, it established that Congress would convene on January 3rd, which streamlined the legislative process and reduced the gap between elections and the beginning of new terms. The other amendments mentioned do not pertain to the timing of presidential or congressional terms: the 18th Amendment dealt with the prohibition of alcohol, the 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote, and the 21st Amendment repealed the 18th Amendment. Thus, the 20th Amendment stands out as the defining change to the schedule surrounding the

The 20th Amendment, ratified in 1933, is the correct choice as it specifically addresses the timeline for the commencement of presidential and congressional terms. This amendment was significant during Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration, as it aimed to reduce the time that "lame duck" politicians—those who have been defeated or are not seeking reelection—remain in office after an election.

Prior to the passage of the 20th Amendment, presidential terms began on March 4th, which meant that newly elected presidents had to wait several months after the election to take office. The amendment moved the inauguration date from March 4th to January 20th, thereby allowing a more efficient transition of power. Additionally, it established that Congress would convene on January 3rd, which streamlined the legislative process and reduced the gap between elections and the beginning of new terms.

The other amendments mentioned do not pertain to the timing of presidential or congressional terms: the 18th Amendment dealt with the prohibition of alcohol, the 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote, and the 21st Amendment repealed the 18th Amendment. Thus, the 20th Amendment stands out as the defining change to the schedule surrounding the