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Why It Matters
President Donald Trump is pressing Senate Republicans to advance legislation that would eliminate the twice-yearly clock changes, a shift that could affect sleep schedules, work routines, and daily life for all Americans, including Idahoans.
What Happened
Trump urged Senate Republicans to pass a bipartisan bill making daylight saving time permanent nationwide. The House approved the measure in July with strong support from both parties, but the legislation faces resistance in the Senate as lawmakers prepare for their August recess.
Speaking on the measure, Trump stated that “people are sick and tired of having to change their clocks twice a year. It is foolish, inconvenient and, in some cases, very costly.” The president framed the change as addressing a frustration many Americans experience with the semiannual time shifts, as first reported by the Idaho Capital Sun.
The bill, sponsored in the Senate by Republican Rick Scott of Florida and introduced in the House by Republican Vern Buchanan of Florida, faces hurdles despite bipartisan backing. Some lawmakers from both parties have expressed concerns about ending the twice-yearly clock adjustments.
Republican Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas has emerged as a notable opponent. Cotton argued that making daylight saving time permanent would have practical drawbacks, warning it could “push winter sunrises to an absurdly late hour, depriving Americans of morning sunshine that’s essential for our safety and well-being.” His position reflects concerns that permanent daylight saving time could shift sunrise times into less convenient hours during winter months, as first reported by the Idaho Capital Sun.
By the Numbers
- House vote: 308-117 in favor of the permanent daylight saving time bill
- Current practice: Two clock changes per year (spring forward, fall back)
- Timeline: Senate companion bill introduced in January 2025; House passed its version in July 2026
What’s Next
The Senate is scheduled to adjourn for its August recess later in the week, meaning action on the measure would need to occur quickly or be postponed until lawmakers return from the break. Trump’s public pressure on Senate Republicans signals the White House wants movement on the issue before the recess begins.
The fate of the bill depends on whether Senate leadership can address concerns from members like Cotton while building sufficient support to advance the measure. Both parties have lawmakers with reservations about the proposal, suggesting negotiations may be needed to reach consensus.
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