The danger of America’s long presidential handover

As the US presidential race rollercoasters towards its finale, many Americans are already bracing themselves for a close and highly contested vote. The uncertain outcome of the election is just the beginning of what could be a fraught period for the United States and the world.

There are 76 days for mischief, or worse, between this year’s election date and the transition to a new president being sworn in on 20 January. Traditionally, this period has been used by the president-elect to piece together a cabinet, reward staffers and large campaign donors with senior positions, refine policy priorities, entertain foreign officials eager to ingratiate themselves, and studiously avoid any hard commitments that may handicap the administration down the road.  

Post-election, outgoing presidents and their administration are the lamest of lame ducks and eager to move on. Joe Biden will be doling out last-minute political favours, hosting farewell dinners, and hiring an architect for his presidential library – as well as raising the money to pay for it. His