Stock Trading Ban for Members of Congress

Floor Speech

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Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, the American people expect and deserve to know that their elected officials are working for them, not lining their own pockets.

When Members of Congress trade individual stocks while in office, it fuels distrust, undermines public confidence, and casts a shadow over the work of this institution. Even the perception of impropriety weakens the bond between the government and the governed.

Members of Congress have unparalleled access to market-moving information and the ability to shape laws and regulations that can impact entire industries. That power must never be used to enrich ourselves or our families.

There is simply no legitimate reason for Members of Congress, their spouses, or their dependent children to be trading individual stocks, period. This bipartisan legislation would close that dangerous loophole once and for all. It would require lawmakers to place certain investments into qualified blind trusts, prevent conflicts of interest, and restore accountability where it is so desperately needed.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to cosponsor the TRUST in Congress Act, and I thank Representatives Magaziner and Roy for their leadership on this critical bipartisan legislation. It is a long overdue, commonsense step toward restoring integrity in public service and rebuilding the trust of the American people.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues in both Chambers to join us in passing this essential reform.

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