In a bold move, former President Donald Trump has proposed to eliminate Daylight Saving Time (DST) as part of a renewed push by the GOP to change the nation’s time-keeping practices. On December 13, 2024, Trump took to social media stating, ‘It’s time to turn the clocks back for good. No more changing the clocks twice a year, and no more confusion for businesses and families.’ His statement aligns with a broader effort within the Republican Party, which is gaining momentum to end the biannual time shift.
The Republican-led initiative aims to create a uniform time across the United States, enhancing productivity by eliminating the disruptions associated with changing the clocks. Prominent GOP members are expected to rally for this change, emphasizing the benefits for various sectors, particularly business and agriculture.
Support for this legislation has been echoed in various states, with proposals already in motion in states such as Florida and California. GOP leaders have argued that the current system leads to negative consequences for health and safety due to disrupted sleep patterns. According to a study from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the time change has been correlated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
As the movement gains traction, Trump has indicated his willingness to lead the charge, further stating, ‘This is not just a Republican issue; it’s a common-sense solution for all Americans.’ With historically bipartisan support for the repeal of DST, this announcement marks a significant shift in potential legislative actions in the upcoming year.
