Trump Pressures Senate to Pass Permanent Daylight Saving Bill

President Donald Trump is pressuring the U.S. Senate to pass the Sunshine Protection Act, a bill that would establish permanent daylight saving time and eliminate the twice-yearly practice of changing clocks. The legislation previously passed the House of Representatives on July 14, 2026, with a 308-117 vote.

Trump has publicly criticized Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas, identifying him as the primary Republican blocking the measure. The president argues that the current system is costly and negatively impacts public health, crime rates, and the economy. In contrast, Cotton opposes the reform, stating that permanent daylight saving time would create dangerous morning darkness for schoolchildren and early-rising workers during winter months.

Despite the president's push for a bipartisan victory, the Senate has adjourned until November 9 for the midterm elections. Because the chamber is not in session, no votes can occur before the scheduled November 1 time change, meaning Americans will still observe the fall back transition. While Senator John Kennedy described the effort as "dead as disco," key sponsor Senator Rick Scott remains confident the measure could be approved when lawmakers return.