President Donald Trump has called on Republicans in the U.S. Senate to move forward with legislation that would end the twice-yearly changing of clocks across the United States.
Trump urged senators to advance the Sunshine Protection Act, arguing that Americans should no longer have to adjust their clocks twice a year. In a post on Truth Social, he said the House of Representatives approved the legislation on July 14 with strong bipartisan support and called on the Senate to follow.
The president said passing the measure would represent another example of cooperation between Republicans and Democrats.
Trump also accused Republican Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas of holding up the legislation in the Senate “for reasons unknown” and urged members of his party to bring the issue forward.
Trump Argues Clock Changes Carry Economic and Social Costs
Trump argued that changing the clocks twice a year “costs the country a fortune” and affects several areas of everyday life, including stress levels, crime and sports.
He also said most Americans would prefer an additional hour of daylight in the evening rather than in the morning.
According to Trump, ending the seasonal clock changes could have broader benefits. He claimed it could help reduce robberies and homicides, as well as traffic accidents, particularly those involving pedestrians.
The president also pointed to possible health benefits, including lower risks associated with heart problems, strokes and seasonal depression.
Trump said permanent time could also benefit children’s safety, family life, sports and tourism. He additionally cited potential advantages for retailers and restaurants, as well as possible savings on electricity bills.
Trump Calls for Bipartisan Support in the Senate
The president framed the issue as one that could bring together Republicans, Democrats and independent lawmakers.
He called on senators to keep the country on its current time and “never change the clocks again.”
The proposal would represent a major change for millions of Americans who currently adjust their clocks twice each year.
Trump’s latest intervention now puts additional pressure on the Senate to consider the legislation after its approval in the House.
Whether lawmakers will move forward with the proposal will depend on the Senate, where Trump is urging Republicans to make the issue a legislative priority.
