US President Donald Trump has stepped up efforts to persuade Senate Republicans to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. He targeted Senator Tom Cotton, accusing him of delaying the legislation. In a post on Saturday, Trump expressed frustration that Cotton alone could impede progress in the Senate. He asserted that the bill should pass easily and with bipartisan support.
The Sunshine Protection Act, dubbed the “No More Changing of Clocks Act” by Trump, aims to end the biannual clock changes. It was approved in the House in July with a 308-117 vote. However, Cotton has resisted the proposal, citing concerns about farmers, construction workers, and schoolchildren being in the dark during winter mornings. Trump argued that the bill would benefit Arkansans, providing an extra hour of daylight and relieving the hassle of changing clocks.
Trump escalated his comments by posting what he claimed was Cotton’s phone number, urging Arkansas residents to contact him. This tactic is reminiscent of his 2016 campaign when he revealed Senator Lindsey Graham’s number after criticism from Graham. Al Jazeera attempted to call the number in Trump’s post but found the voicemail box full. Neither Cotton’s office nor the White House responded to queries on the matter.
Trump highlighted the bill’s potential advantages for sports, noting that the PGA Tour requires more daylight to complete tournaments. He also mentioned that regular golfers, tennis players, hunters, and especially farmers would benefit from more daylight. While spending part of Saturday at his golf club in Virginia, Trump shared feedback he’s received from a table of distinguished people.
They told him they hate leaving home after a time change when it’s dark, finding it depressing. Trump has consistently urged Senate Republicans to pass the bill. In the past, Congress briefly implemented year-round daylight saving time in 1974 during an energy crisis, but this was repealed less than a year later due to safety concerns for children commuting in the dark.
Senators have left Washington and are not expected back until after the November 3 midterm elections. Some, including Senator John Kennedy, doubt the bill will be brought to a vote before the elections. “It’s dead as disco,” he told Reuters. “I don’t think the leader is going to bring it up.” The bill’s fate remains uncertain.
The issue of making Daylight Saving Time permanent has sparked debate across the US. While some argue it would have benefits, others raise concerns about the impact on certain groups. As the midterm elections approach, it remains to be seen whether the bill will gain traction in the Senate.
Key points
- President Trump is pushing for the passage of the Sunshine Protection Act.
- Senator Tom Cotton is resisting the proposal, citing concerns about certain groups.
- The bill's fate remains uncertain with the midterm elections approaching.
