Lame Duck

Explanation

A lame duck is a leader whose political power has diminished because they cannot or will not seek re-election, and whose successor has already been determined. The term is most commonly used in the United States to describe a president in the period between an election loss and the inauguration of their successor. Lame duck periods can create policy uncertainty, as allies and opponents adjust their behavior to the incoming administration. Some executives use the lame duck period to push through controversial policies or pardons insulated from electoral consequences. The term also applies to legislators who lost re-election but remain in office until the new term begins.