Will This Year Mark the End of Clock Changes in the U.S.? President Trump Pushes for Permanent Daylight Saving Time
The upcoming clock change is approaching, but President Donald Trump is advocating for it to be one of the last. Americans are set to turn their clocks back on Nov. 1 as daylight saving time ends, despite the House passing a bill to keep clocks forward year-round. The Senate's recess until Sept. 14 raises doubts about passing the measure before the fall time change. The question remains whether this year will mark the end of clock changes in the country.
President Trump has publicly supported the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent and eliminate clock changes. The bill passed in the House but faces uncertainty in the Senate. With the deadline approaching, lawmakers are pressed for time to alter the system before Nov. 1. Trump's endorsement of the bill aligns with his long-standing opposition to the biannual clock changes.
While Trump and bipartisan lawmakers back the legislation, Senate Majority Leader John Thune has expressed concerns about sufficient support. Until the Senate approves the bill and it reaches Trump's desk, Americans should prepare to adjust their clocks on Nov. 1. Despite the benefits of ending clock changes, experts suggest that permanent standard time may be a healthier alternative to permanent daylight saving time.
The debate over clock changes has also raised concerns among religious communities, such as Jewish and Muslim groups, due to the impact on prayer times and observances. Without congressional action, daylight saving time will conclude on Nov. 1, 2026, with clocks moving back one hour. While some states and territories adhere to standard time year-round, most of the country continues to switch between daylight saving time and standard time annually.
Public opinion polls indicate a growing weariness with the biannual clock changes, with a majority of Americans favoring their elimination. However, unless Congress acts swiftly upon returning from recess, Americans should anticipate turning their clocks back on Nov. 1. The ongoing debate surrounding clock changes underscores the need for a resolution on the issue to address public preferences and health concerns.