Trump Vows to Ban Congressional Stock Trading—Because Nothing Says ’Public Service’ Like Forced Divestment

Former President Trump drops a political grenade: A bill banning Congress from playing the markets while making them. Finally—a bipartisan issue even Wall Street can’t short.

Lawmakers now face their ultimate test: governing without insider-trading side hustles. Let’s see how long before the loophole lobbyists get to work.

*Cynical finance jab*: Expect a surge in ’consulting fees’ to offset lost trading revenue.

US President Trump to Sign Ban on Stock Trading in Congress

For years, congressional stock trading has been an activity that has concerned the general public. With so much potential for insider trading, there has long been bipartisan support for its restriction. However, legislation has never been able to pass through both chambers.

That could change with the current administration. Speaking to Time Magazine, US President Donald Trump said he would sign a bill that banned Congress from stock trading. Indeed, he expressed support for the legislation that would receive his signature if it reached his desk.

“Well, I watched Nancy Pelosi get rich through insider information, and I would be okay with it. If they send that to me, I would do it,” Trump said. When asked if he would sign the bill, Trump responded with a succinct “absolutely.”

Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi had been the face of congressional insider trading allegations. However, she ceased her opposition to a ban on the practice in 2022. Both she and her husband have been well-known for forming their future through the stock market.

She isn’t alone, as Republican official Marjorie Taylor Greene has made headlines for purchasing thousands of dollars worth of stock this year. Specifically, her purchasing strategy aligned with the ongoing tariff craze that decimated the market. Subsequently, many pondered if her decisions were made based on insider information.

In 2024, the Senate forwarded the Ending Trading and Holdings in Congressional Stocks Act, which sought to ban Congress from trading stocks. It was unable to pass through a Democratic Senate, but could have better luck since that has flipped Republican.