In brief
With the end of daylight saving time approaching, a recent AP-NORC poll shows that just 12% of U.S. adults favor the current system of changing clocks twice a year. A majority express opposition, preferring more daylight in the evenings. Individuals like Pranava Jayanti share concerns about the abrupt changes in daylight, highlighting a growing demand for the U.S. to adopt consistent time year-round. Calls for legislation to eliminate the clock changes have surfaced, backed by medical organizations and public figures.
NEW YORK (AP) — Yes, you’ll get a shot at an extra hour’s sleep this weekend, but many Americans see this as a dreaded time of year— the end of daylight saving time.
According to a recent AP-NORC poll, only 12% of U.S. adults support the current daylight saving framework, which involves twice a year clock changes. While 47% resist the system, 40% remain neutral.
As the clocks are set back an hour this Sunday at 2 a.m. local time, many citizens express discontent towards this unwelcome transition. The preference leans heavily towards maintaining more daylight in the evening, rather than the morning.
Pranava Jayanti, a 31-year-old Los Angeles resident, recalls the surprises that accompany the seasonal clock changes, stating it greatly affects how quickly day turns into night.
Echoing similar sentiments, there have been numerous calls across the nation to abolish the clock changes altogether. Public figures, including President Donald Trump and organizations such as the American Medical Association, advocate for either permanent daylight saving time or standard time, citing health and societal benefits.
Interestingly, nearly half of U.S. adults—about 56%—would prefer permanent daylight saving time with longer evenings, while 40% opt for standard time. The latter choice resonates particularly with those who identify as morning people.
Why Clock Changes Continue
Despite the rising pushback, the reasons for the two-time-a-year transition remain diverse. Some studies suggest that one consistent time could enhance health outcomes and align better with human circadian rhythms.
America faced an attempt for permanent daylight saving in the 1970s, which was short-lived due to its unpopularity.
As we once again prepare for a time shift this weekend, many Americans are left wondering when (or if) this clock-changing tradition will come to an end.
