Trump Criticizes Senate for Delay on Permanent Daylight Saving Time
The former president expressed frustration with the lack of Senate action on making daylight saving time permanent, joking that the clock changes make him late.
President Donald Trump voiced strong disapproval of the Senate's inaction on making daylight saving time (DST) permanent, stating at a rally in Corinth, Mississippi, that the twice-yearly clock change is "stupid" and has disappointed many Americans. He noted that the House of Representatives has passed legislation to make DST permanent five times, urging the Senate to "take a vote."
Trump recounted personal anecdotes, including being an hour late for a meeting due to the time change, and emphasized that "everyone hates" the practice. He called for the Senate to "vote [clock-changing] out" and adopt a single, permanent time.
The president asserted that the Sunshine Protection Act is "locked" in the Senate despite its passage in the House by a 308-117 margin. He expressed disappointment that DST would end as scheduled on November 1, a sentiment he reiterated on social media, criticizing the Senate for "letting the Daylight Saving Bill die."
Trump has previously pointed to Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) as an obstacle to the bill's passage. Cotton, however, has stated he will "always oppose" the reform. He argues that for many in Arkansas, permanent DST would lead to sunrises as late as 8:00 or 8:30 a.m. during winter, potentially affecting children starting school before daylight and penalizing outdoor workers.
Cotton also cited health concerns, suggesting that Standard Time aligns better with natural body rhythms than DST. Senator Steve Daines (R-Mont.) has also expressed reservations, noting potential issues for residents in western states where early sunrises are not a concern and late sunrises could be problematic for families.
