We propose a theory of optimal fiscal policy consistent with the observation that governments typically inherit their predecessors' plans and formulate their policies over a finite future horizon. We use this framework, which we call “Limited-Time Commitment" (LTC), to make two contributions....

Capital reallocation is procyclical in the data, but countercyclical in standard business-cycle models. To solve this puzzle, I build a model of endogenous partial irreversibility, with heterogeneous firms facing aggregate and idiosyncratic productivity shocks. Used investment goods are...