Daylight saving time (DST) has been a contentious issue in the U.S., leading to calls for its abolition by leaders like President Donald Trump and Elon Musk. The U.S. Congress is considering legislation to eliminate the biannual clock change. Although many favor longer summer daylight, others find the practice outdated and disruptive. Trump’s initial support for ending DST has wavered, revealing the divided public opinion on the matter. Recently, Musk’s poll on X showed 58% preferred a later time shift if DST were abolished. Despite strong views, a consensus for change remains elusive.
Frequent interruptions in sleep and perplexing clock changes have made daylight saving time a persistent source of annoyance for many Americans. Numerous leaders and policymakers have advocated for abolishing this twice-yearly practice.
The discourse surrounding daylight saving time has been active for many years. Recently, former US President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk have shared their perspectives on the issue. Concurrently, legislation is being reviewed in the US Congress aiming to permanently discard the practice of clock adjustments twice a year.
While some endorse the benefits of extended daylight during summer and reverting to standard time in winter, others contend that this practice is outdated and disruptive. Nevertheless, despite strong arguments on both sides, implementing a permanent change has proven challenging.
This article explores the ongoing discussion and the complexities involved in abolishing daylight saving time.
Trump’s View on Daylight Saving Time
Initially, Trump appeared to be in favor of eliminating daylight saving time, but his recent comments indicate he may not be entirely committed to this viewpoint.
In a social media post from December, Trump criticized the biannual clock changes, asserting, “The Republican Party will make every effort to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but robust following, but shouldn’t! Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient and comes at a significant cost to our Nation.”
However, just months later, his position seemed less certain. During a signing of executive orders on a Thursday, Trump recognized the ongoing discussion, labeling it a “fifty-fifty issue.” He commented, “It’s something I can do, but many people prefer it one way, while others like it the opposite.”
Daylight saving time alters sunrise and sunset by shifting them an hour later, impacting daily schedules. Trump acknowledged the mixed feelings, stating, “I gather that people would prefer more light later, although some want more light earlier because they don’t want their kids going to school in the dark.”
Meanwhile, entrepreneur Elon Musk sparked further conversation by conducting a poll on X, inquiring if users favored an earlier or later adjustment if the practice was discontinued. Over 1.3 million individuals participated, with 58% choosing a later shift and 42% supporting an earlier change.
Although the discussion surrounding daylight saving time persists, Trump’s changing perspective indicates that any potential modifications remain uncertain.