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Civics Matter

Empowering citizens through education, data, and news about civics and politics in the United States. Building a more informed and engaged democracy.

contact@civicsmatter.com

Explore

U.S. Congress
State Legislators
Governors
States
Counties
Districts

Learn

U.S. Constitution
Branches of Government
Supreme Court
Electoral College
Political Parties
Civics Glossary
How to Vote

Historical

U.S. Presidents
Vice Presidents
First Ladies
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Speakers of the House
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Congressional History

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What is Lame Duck? | Civics Matter

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Glossary
Lame Duck

Civics Glossary

Lame Duck

Executive

Last verified: June 2026

Definition

An elected official serving out the remainder of their term after a successor has been elected.

More Executive Terms

Cabinet

Glossary

The group of senior officials who lead the 15 executive departments and advise the president.

Executive Order

Glossary

A directive issued by the president that manages operations of the federal government.

Executive Privilege

Glossary

The claimed right of the president to withhold information from Congress, the courts, or the public.

Government Shutdown

Glossary

Occurs when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills, forcing non-essential federal agencies to cease operations.

Pardon

Glossary

The president's constitutional power to forgive a person convicted of a federal crime.

Pocket Veto

Glossary

An indirect veto that occurs when the president does not sign a bill within 10 days and Congress adjourns.