What significant political change occurred due to the Twentieth Amendment?

The Twentieth Amendment, ratified in 1933, significantly altered the timing of the commencement of congressional and presidential terms. Prior to this amendment, the terms for these offices began in March, leading to a long "lame duck" period after elections in November. This amendment moved the start date to January, effectively reducing the time that outgoing officials remained in office without being accountable to the electorate.

This change was intended to make the government more responsive and efficient, ensuring that newly elected officials could assume their duties sooner after the election results were in. This adaptation reflects a desire for a more dynamic and participative approach to governance and aligns with the broader principles of democratic accountability.

The other options do not accurately describe the impact of the Twentieth Amendment. The amendment did not extend voting rights, establish the Supreme Court, or promote civil rights legislation, making it clear that the change to the election timetable was its primary focus.