Trump publishes Cotton's number to pressure Senate on daylight saving time

Key points

• Trump posted Cotton's cell number on Truth Social, urging Arkansans to call him to support the Sunshine Protection Act.
• The Sunshine Protection Act passed the House in July with a 308-117 vote but has not advanced in the Senate.
• Cotton opposes the bill, arguing permanent daylight saving time leads to 'absurdly late sunrises' and dark winter mornings for children.
• Trump cited support from the PGA Tour and argued the current clock-change system is costly and disruptive.
• Democratic Rep. Joaquin Castro warned that publishing Cotton's number puts him at risk of cyberattacks from foreign actors.

Background

The Sunshine Protection Act has been a recurring legislative effort in the US, with previous attempts to make daylight saving time permanent being repealed after public backlash over late winter sunrises. Trump has previously shared personal phone numbers of political opponents, including Sen. Lindsey Graham during the 2016 primary. The current dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the White House and Senate Republicans over procedural blocks to executive priorities.

How outlets are covering it

CNN and MS NOW emphasized the privacy and security risks of Trump publishing Cotton's number, with CNN noting Castro's warning about potential hacking by foreign actors. MS NOW highlighted Cotton's voicemail being full and his office's lack of immediate response. USA Today focused on the legislative stalemate, noting the House's 301-117 vote (slightly different from CNN's 308-117) and Cotton's 2025 floor speech opposing the bill. AP News reported the incident as a 'time spat' but provided minimal additional detail beyond the core facts. All outlets agreed on the core conflict: Trump's push for permanent daylight saving time versus Cotton's opposition based on winter sunrise concerns.

Why it matters

The incident underscores the growing use of social media by political figures to bypass traditional legislative channels and directly pressure lawmakers. It also highlights the ongoing debate over the practical and health impacts of daylight saving time, with proponents citing economic and safety benefits and opponents warning of disruptions to circadian rhythms and daily routines. The privacy concerns raised by the publication of a senator's personal number may set a precedent for future political disputes.

What to watch

The Senate is expected to continue debating the Sunshine Protection Act, with Cotton likely maintaining his opposition. Trump may continue to use social media to pressure other senators or push for alternative legislative strategies. The outcome of the bill will depend on whether other Senate Republicans join Cotton in opposing the measure or if Trump can secure enough support to override the block.