Daylight Saving Time Change: Majority of Americans Prefer Permanent Time

Thu Oct 30 2025 19:12:25 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As the U.S. prepares to change clocks for the end of daylight saving time, a recent poll reveals that most Americans would prefer a permanent time system. Over 80% of respondents show dissatisfaction with the current setup, citing personal and health-related reasons.

This weekend marks the end of daylight saving time, prompting a shift back to standard time. A recent AP-NORC poll indicates that only 12% of Americans favor the current twice-a-year clock changes, while 47% oppose it. Increased darkness in the evenings is a significant concern, leading many to call for a permanent daylight saving schedule. Research suggests permanent daylight saving time could even be beneficial for health, as relying on a single time could improve the human circadian rhythm. Several individuals, particularly 'night people,' show strong preference for this change, reflecting broader societal trends and habits around timekeeping.

NEW YORK (AP) — As Americans prepare for the dreaded clock change this weekend marking the end of daylight saving time, a new AP-NORC poll highlights a growing dissatisfaction with the current system. Starting Sunday at 2 a.m., clocks will roll back one hour, leading to longer dark evenings that many find unwelcome.

The recent survey shows only 12% of U.S. adults support the twice-annual clock changes, while 47% oppose them, and 40% remain neutral. Many individuals express a desire for permanent daylight saving time, favoring more light in the evenings.

A notable opponent of the changes is Pranava Jayanti, a Los Angeles resident who grew up in India without such clock adjustments. He recalls the shock of experiencing early darkness for the first time in the U.S., reflecting the sentiments shared by many others struggling with the biannual time shifts.

Efforts have been made to propose legislation to eliminate the clock changes altogether, receiving support from the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and even former President Donald Trump, who has advocated for permanent daylight saving time via social media.

Yet, the population’s preferences vary across age groups; younger adults tend to be indifferent, whereas older individuals express stronger opposition to the shifts. Those identifying as night people favor the idea of permanent daylight saving time, while an almost even split among morning people remains evident, showcasing the complexity of this issue.

Historically, the U.S. adopted time changes during World War I and again in World War II, but formal legislation allowing states to opt-out was established in 1966. Currently, nearly all states observe daylight saving time except Arizona and Hawaii.

A Stanford University study adds to the debate, suggesting that consistent timekeeping is healthier for humans, indicating that the impacts of these changes are far-reaching and influence personal health and well-being. Public sentiment indicates that this issue is more than just a simple time change; it reflects deeper societal habits, preferences, and health implications.