Trump Expresses Desire to End Daylight Saving Time
In a recent announcement, President-elect Donald Trump has voiced a strong intention to put an end to daylight saving time (DST), labeling it as “inconvenient” and “very costly” for Americans. This statement was made via a post on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump indicated that while DST has a “small but strong constituency,” he believes it should not continue. The Republican party, under his leadership, plans to take action to eliminate this long-standing tradition.
What is Daylight Saving Time?
Daylight saving time is a practice that involves moving the clock forward by one hour in the spring and pushing it back again in the autumn. This change aims to make better use of natural daylight during the longer days of summer. DST is observed in about a third of the world’s countries, particularly throughout Europe. However, a segment of the population in the US has been advocating for its cancellation for quite some time.
The Debate: Standard Time vs. Daylight Saving Time
Those who argue in favor of keeping standard time claim that it offers numerous health benefits. They believe more morning light can lead to improved sleep patterns and help people feel more rested. Critics of DST argue that the clock changes can disrupt sleep schedules and lead to sleep-related issues.
On the other hand, some advocates want to make DST permanent. They argue that having brighter evenings can improve safety, particularly for those commuting home from work or school. Supporters of this view suggest that more daylight in the evenings would help reduce crime, save energy, and even decrease road accidents. Each side asserts that their preferred approach would ultimately be better for the economy.
Past Attempts to Change DST
Trump’s proposal is not the first time there have been efforts to modify the biannual clock changes in the US. In 2022, a bill aimed at making daylight saving time permanent passed in the Democratic-controlled Senate but failed to reach President Joe Biden’s desk. This bill, known as the Sunshine Protection Act, was spearheaded by Republican Senator Marco Rubio, who has recently been selected by Trump to serve as secretary of state in the upcoming administration.
Daylight saving time was first introduced in the US during World War One in 1918 as a method to conserve fuel. Initially unpopular among farmers, it was repealed after the war ended. However, it returned during World War Two and was made a permanent fixture in 1966, although states were given the choice to opt out. At present, Hawaii and most of Arizona do not observe the time changes associated with DST.
Health and Economic Implications
Research conducted by Joan Costa-i-Font, a professor at the London School of Economics, has shed light on the potential downsides of DST. His study highlights that DST may have negative impacts on sleep and physical health, including increased feelings of fatigue, stress, and time pressure. Additionally, Costa-i-Font estimated that eliminating DST could lead to a significant boost in economic output, equating to an increase of approximately €754 ($792; £627) per individual each year.
Global Perspectives on DST
Some countries have chosen to do away with DST entirely. For example, Mexico abolished the practice in 2022, although border regions still observe DST for economic reasons. Coincidentally, Jordan also ended DST that same year. In contrast, nations like Turkey and Russia have opted to maintain a permanent DST within the last decade.
Interestingly, a recent poll conducted by Monmouth University found that around two-thirds of Americans favor making daylight saving time permanent. As discussions continue regarding the future of DST under Trump’s administration, it remains to be seen how these sentiments will influence policy changes in the coming years.
