WASHINGTON, DC (LOOTPRESS) – As the United States prepares to switch to daylight saving time (DST) on March 9, a new Gallup poll reveals that 54% of Americans want to eliminate the practice. In contrast, 40% support keeping DST, while 6% remain undecided.
The survey, conducted Jan. 21-27, marks the first time Gallup has polled Americans on daylight saving time since 1999, when 73% supported it. The drop in approval is significant, with support declining across all demographic groups.
Public Opinion Shifts on Time Changes
Americans have grown increasingly opposed to the twice-yearly clock changes, preferring a consistent time systemthroughout the year. When asked about their preferred approach:
- 48% favor standard time year-round.
- 24% prefer daylight saving time year-round.
- 19% support keeping the current system of switching twice a year.
This means that 72% of Americans would prefer to end clock changes altogether—a notable increase from similar surveys conducted in the 1940s, when support for year-round time consistency was between 62% and 64%.
Demographic Differences in Support
While opposition to daylight saving time is widespread, some differences exist:
- Democrats (44%) are slightly more supportive of DST than Republicans (34%).
- Lower-income households (53%) show greater support than middle-income (35%) and high-income earners (33%).
- Age and education levels do not significantly impact views on DST.
The Future of Daylight Saving Time
Daylight saving time was introduced nationwide in 1918 to conserve energy during World War I. It remained inconsistently observed until Congress passed the Uniform Time Act in 1966, requiring national time changes each spring and fall. Some states, including Hawaii and most of Arizona, have since opted out of DST.
In 2022, the U.S. Senate passed a bill to make DST permanent, but it stalled in the House of Representatives. This year, lawmakers from both parties have introduced similar proposals.
Why Opposition to DST Is Growing
Research has linked daylight saving time changes to negative effects on health and safety, including:
- Sleep disruptions
- Increased traffic accidents
- Higher risks of heart attacks and workplace injuries
Additionally, studies suggest that extending daylight hours in the evening does not significantly reduce energy consumption, weakening one of the original justifications for DST.
As policymakers debate the future of daylight saving time, public sentiment appears to be shifting firmly toward ending the twice-yearly time change.
