In the midst of autumn's chill, Americans are gearing up for that familiar ritual—the end of daylight saving time. This year, on Sunday, November 2, at 2 a.m., clocks will snap back one hour, granting an extra 60 minutes of sleep but ushering in darker evenings sooner. It's a shift that feels both relieving and disruptive, especially as the days shorten anyway.
Indeed, the change isn't without its quirks. Most of the country observes this, though Hawaii and most of Arizona opt out, sticking to standard time year-round. For the rest, it's a quick adjustment: set your watches before bed on Saturday night, and wake up to what feels like an unexpected bonus hour. But don't forget the smoke detectors or car clocks—those always seem to lag behind.
However, the practice itself stirs ongoing debate. Introduced in 1918 to save energy during World War I, daylight saving time has outlived its original purpose, critics argue. Studies show mixed results on energy conservation, and health experts point to disruptions in sleep patterns that can spike heart attacks or accidents in the weeks following. Moreover, with President Trump voicing plans to scrap the biannual switch, and several states pushing for permanent standard time, 2025 might mark the last of these clock tweaks for some. Yet federal law still mandates it, at least for now.
The fall back does brighten mornings, which suits the season's early sunrises. Still, it accelerates the onset of night, making after-work outings feel rushed. For parents and commuters, this means recalibrating routines amid the holiday rush ahead.
As we turn back the clocks, one wonders if this outdated tradition will finally fade into history.