Lame duck period

[politicallefty]

This is one of my biggest pet peeves with current American governance. Once an election has occurred, I do not believe those in power prior to said election should be able to exercise any power. They no longer have legitimate democratic authority.

Considering the considerable work in transitioning to a new Presidency, I could see perhaps moving Inauguration Day much closer to the New Year (such as January 3rd). As for Congress, those duly found elected should be able to take office within a week or two weeks at most. Virtually all races will have been declared within a week (a select very few last beyond that). Unless the seat count is very close, a new Congress taking office that soon will not affect anything. They don't necessarily have to do anything at that time. They can easily convene and recess to a later time.

My main issue isn't so much when the new Congress takes office, but rather the end of the previous one. I do not believe any elected official should be able to act once their successor has been elected. Perhaps Congress should have automatic dissolution two months prior to Election Day (with the possible exception to convene on emergency matters with a 2/3 supermajority in both Houses, and any laws requiring the same supermajority).