Legal Definitions - lame duck

Definition: A lame duck is an elected official who continues to serve out their term after a successor has been elected.

Examples: A president who has lost re-election but still has a few months left in their term is a lame duck. Similarly, a governor who has announced they will not seek re-election but still has time left in their term is also a lame duck.

Explanation: The term "lame duck" refers to an elected official who is no longer able to effectively govern because they have lost the support of the people or because their successor has already been elected. During this time, they may have limited power and may not be able to accomplish much. This can be a difficult and frustrating time for the official and for the people they serve.