At 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9, 2025, Americans will lose an hour of sleep as clocks move forward for the start of Daylight Saving Time (DST). The biannual ritual, which extends daylight into the evening hours, has long been a subject of debate. Former President Donald Trump, who previously called DST “inconvenient” and suggested he would work to eliminate it, has now softened his stance, calling it a “50-50 issue.”
Trump’s Evolving Stance on Daylight Saving Time
When asked about removing Daylight Saving Time in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump stated, “It’s a 50-50 issue, and if something’s a 50-50 issue, it’s hard to get excited about it.” He acknowledged that while some people prefer having more light in the evening, others dislike taking their children to school in the dark.
“It’s something I can do, but a lot of people like it one way, a lot of people like it the other way, it’s very even, and usually I find when that’s the case, what else do we have to do?” Trump remarked.
His latest comments contrast with his previous assertion in December 2024 that the Republican Party would work to eliminate DST, calling it “very costly to our Nation.” His apparent change in tone suggests he is now less inclined to prioritize the issue.
The Debate Over Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time has been in place in some form since World War I, initially implemented to save energy. Supporters argue that longer daylight hours reduce crime, encourage outdoor activity, and benefit businesses. However, critics cite studies linking the time change to increased heart attacks, strokes, and disrupted sleep patterns.
Public opinion remains divided. A recent Gallup poll found that 54% of Americans favor staying on standard time year-round, while 46% prefer permanent DST. Despite these sentiments, Congress has yet to take definitive action. The Sunshine Protection Act, which aims to make DST permanent, has stalled in the House after passing in the Senate in 2022.
What’s Next?
Trump’s recent remarks indicate he is leaning against taking action on DST, making it unlikely to change under his leadership. While lawmakers continue to debate the issue, Americans must prepare to spring forward and fall back as they have for decades.
For those affected by the lost hour of sleep, experts recommend gradually adjusting sleep schedules and exposing themselves to natural light in the morning to help ease the transition.
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