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Topline: Former President Donald Trump has softened his stance on eliminating the national time change, saying on Thursday that the issue is "50-50." This marks a shift from his previous position, where he called the time change "inconvenient." His comments come just days before Americans set their clocks forward.

Key Facts

• When asked in the Oval Office about ending daylight saving time, Trump responded, "It’s a 50-50 issue, and if something’s a 50-50 issue, it’s hard to get excited about it."
• He noted that while some people prefer longer daylight in the evening, others want more light in the morning, especially for schoolchildren.
• Trump acknowledged that he has the power to push for change but questioned whether it was necessary, given the divided opinions.

Will Trump Get Rid of Daylight Saving Time?

It remains uncertain. While Trump previously stated that the Republican Party would work to eliminate daylight saving time, his latest comments suggest he is less committed to the idea. Eliminating daylight saving time would require an act of Congress and the president's approval.

When Does Daylight Saving Time Begin?

The U.S. is currently in standard time until Sunday, March 9, at 2 a.m., when most states will move to daylight saving time. Clocks will be set forward by one hour, causing a temporary loss of sleep but resulting in longer daylight hours in the evening. This period will last until November 2.

Elon Musk's Take

Elon Musk, a key Trump adviser, recently conducted a poll on X (formerly Twitter) asking Americans about their preference for daylight saving time. Results showed 58.1% favored an hour later, while 41.9% preferred an hour earlier.

Why Does Daylight Saving Time Exist?

Daylight saving time was first introduced in 1918 during wartime to maximize daylight usage. It was repealed and later reinstated in 1966 under the Uniform Time Act. While some believe it reduces energy consumption and improves quality of life, critics argue it negatively impacts health, increasing the risks of heart problems, car accidents, and mood disorders.

Efforts to eliminate daylight saving time have been ongoing, with the closest attempt occurring in 2022 when the Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent. However, the House never voted on the bill.