President Donald Trump has expressed interest in abolishing daylight saving time (DST), labeling it as "inconvenient and very costly to our Nation" in a December 2025 Truth Social post. He initially supported the idea of abolishing DST in favor of permanent standard time, citing its inconvenience, costliness, and negative health effects. However, Trump has since taken a more neutral stance, acknowledging the mixed public opinion and complexity of the issue.
The political debate
DST is multifaceted. In March 2022, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Sunshine Protection Act, aiming to make DST permanent nationwide. Despite this, the bill stalled in the House of Representatives due to a lack of consensus. Advocates for permanent DST argue that it would result in brighter evenings and increased economic activity during winter months. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about children commuting to school in darkness, as sunrise would be delayed by an hour. Health experts also caution that the lost hour of sleep during the transition to DST can have negative health impacts, including increased risks of heart attacks and strokes.
Public opinion on this matter is divided. A recent Gallup poll indicates that 54% of Americans prefer standard time year-round over DST. This division has contributed to the stagnation of legislative efforts to reform or abolish DST. As a result, the biannual clock changes continue, with clocks moving forward by one hour on the second Sunday in March and reverting back on the first Sunday in November.
In summary, while President Trump has shown interest in ending DST, the lack of consensus among lawmakers and the public has impeded significant progress on this issue.
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