Daylight Saving Time: Will Trump Finally End the Clock Changes?
3 min read
MARCH 09,2025
For years, Americans have debated whether, Trump on daylight saving time (DST) should be abolished. The twice-a-year clock change disrupts sleep patterns, confuses schedules, and sparks ongoing frustration. Many leaders and policymakers have called for an end to this outdated ritual. Now, former President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk have weighed in, further fueling the debate. But will daylight saving time finally come to an end? Here’s everything you need to know.
The Controversy Around Daylight Saving Time
The debate over seasonal time adjustments has been ongoing for decades. Supporters argue that longer daylight hours in the evening promote outdoor activities, boost the economy, and reduce energy consumption. On the other hand, opponents claim that the biannual time change disrupts sleep cycles, negatively impacts health, and no longer serves its original purpose in modern society.
In recent years, the movement to eliminate these clock shifts has gained momentum. The U.S. Congress is currently considering legislation to permanently end the practice, but reaching a consensus remains a challenge. While some states and lawmakers push for a permanent shift to daylight saving time, others advocate for a return to standard time year-round.
Trump’s Position on Ending the Biannual Time Change.
Trump initially appeared to support eliminating this practice, expressing frustration with the time adjustments. In a December social media post, he stated, “The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldn’t! Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient and very costly to our Nation.”
However, in a more recent statement, Trump appeared less committed to the idea. While signing executive orders, he acknowledged the divided opinions on the issue, calling it a “fifty-fifty” matter. “It’s something I can do, but a lot of people like it one way, and a lot of people like it the other way,” he said.
Trump also noted the differing perspectives on daylight hours: “I assume people would like to have more light later, but some want more light earlier because they don’t want to take their kids to school in the dark.”
Elon Musk’s Take on the Debate
Adding to the conversation, Elon Musk conducted a poll on X (formerly Twitter), asking users whether they preferred an earlier or later time adjustment if the biannual clock change were abolished. With over 1.3 million votes cast, 58% supported a later time shift, while 42% favored an earlier adjustment. Musk’s poll highlights the ongoing divide, further complicating efforts to make a permanent change.
Why Is It So Hard to Eliminate Daylight Saving Time?
Despite widespread frustration, changing federal time policy is not simple. Federal law allows states to opt out of daylight saving time and stay on standard time, as seen in Arizona and Hawaii. However, states that wish to remain on daylight saving time year-round need congressional approval—a hurdle that has stalled previous attempts to make a permanent change.
The debate continues, with strong opinions on both sides. While some Americans welcome extra daylight in the evening, others argue that eliminating the biannual time change would lead to better sleep, improved productivity, and fewer health risks.
What’s Next?
As Trump’s stance on this issue remains uncertain, and with Congress still debating potential legislation, there is no definitive answer yet. With growing public interest and pressure from business leaders like Musk, the conversation isn’t going away anytime soon. Whether the time change will be abolished or remain a part of American life, the discussion continues to be one of the most polarizing time-related topics in the nation.
Would you prefer to keep daylight saving time or get rid of it for good? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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