Trump posts Cotton's number to force daylight saving vote

Key points

• The Sunshine Protection Act passed the House in July with a 301-117 vote but remains stalled in the Senate.
• Trump posted Cotton's number on Truth Social, urging Arkansans to call their senator to support the bill.
• Cotton opposes permanent daylight saving time, citing safety concerns for children during dark winter mornings.
• Trump argued that the twice-yearly clock change is inefficient and harmful to sports and crime rates.
• The Associated Press and The Guardian attempted to call the number but received no answer or a full voicemail box.

Background

The Senate previously passed a similar bill in 2022, but it stalled in the House. In 1970, Congress briefly enacted permanent daylight saving time but reversed the decision after public backlash over late winter sunrises. Trump has prioritized eliminating the biannual clock change since his 2024 election, pledging to make it a key policy goal.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and The Guardian reported that Trump appeared to share Cotton's personal cell number, with The Guardian noting that calls to the number resulted in a full voicemail or carrier message. CNN focused on the public spat between the president and the senator. USA Today emphasized the legislative history, noting the House passed the bill in July but the Senate has not taken it up. Cotton's office directed reporters to his previous floor speeches, where he argued that permanent daylight saving time would leave children in the dark during winter, a view he reiterated on social media. Trump countered that the current system is 'ridiculous' and costly, citing support from PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp for winter golf tournaments.

Why it matters

The standoff highlights a growing divide within the Republican Party over a long-debated policy issue. While most Americans prefer keeping the extra evening daylight, a significant portion opposes the current system. The bill's passage would require a Senate vote, potentially forcing a confrontation between the White House and Senate Republicans who prioritize winter safety and circadian health over evening daylight.

What to watch

The Senate must vote on the Sunshine Protection Act for it to become law. Cotton and other opponents may continue to block the measure, while Trump may escalate pressure through further public statements or lobbying efforts. The bill includes a provision allowing states to opt out, which could mitigate some concerns but requires legislative action.