How Americans feel about changing the clocks, according to a new AP-NORC poll
News November 02, 2025

How Americans feel about changing the clocks, according to a new AP-NORC poll

Around the United States, the clocks will go back one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday (respective local times) to mark the return to standard time.

**Americans Divided on Daylight Saving Time, New Poll Reveals**

As the nation prepares to "fall back" this Sunday, reverting to standard time and enjoying an extra hour of sleep, a new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research sheds light on Americans' feelings about the annual clock-changing ritual. The poll suggests a nation divided on the issue, with no clear consensus emerging on whether the benefits of daylight saving time outweigh the disruption it causes.

For decades, the twice-yearly switch has been a source of debate. Proponents argue that daylight saving time, which extends daylight into the evening during the warmer months, boosts retail sales, saves energy, and reduces traffic accidents. However, critics point to potential negative effects on health, including disruptions to sleep patterns, increased risk of heart problems, and decreased productivity.

This Sunday at 2 a.m. local time, clocks will officially turn back, marking the end of daylight saving time for 2023. While many will welcome the extra hour of slumber, the AP-NORC poll indicates that a significant portion of the population remains dissatisfied with the current system. The poll explores various perspectives, including support for a permanent switch to either standard time or daylight saving time, as well as opinions on the overall impact of the time change on daily life.

The findings of the poll are expected to fuel further discussion on the future of daylight saving time in the United States. Some states have already taken steps towards adopting permanent daylight saving time, but such changes require Congressional approval. The AP-NORC poll data will likely inform policymakers as they consider potential reforms to the nation's timekeeping practices, weighing the potential benefits and drawbacks for different segments of the population. The debate continues: should we stick with the twice-yearly switch, embrace permanent standard time, or opt for year-round daylight saving time? The answer, it seems, remains elusive.
Category: Politics