Which amendment protects against changes in congressional pay just before elections?

The amendment that protects against changes in congressional pay just before elections is the Twenty-Seventh Amendment. This amendment states that any change in the compensation for members of Congress cannot take effect until after the next election. This provision ensures that legislators cannot give themselves immediate pay raises or cuts right before they are up for re-election, promoting accountability and reducing the potential for corruption in the legislative process.

The significance of this amendment lies in its role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process by preventing lawmakers from manipulating their salaries for political gain. It adds a layer of checks and balances to ensure that representatives are held to a standard in how they manage their compensation, fostering transparency and trust in governmental operations.