Trump Challenges Hawley on Stock Trading Ban
President Donald Trump expressed opposition to Republican Senator Josh Hawley from Missouri on Wednesday, questioning Hawley’s decision to collaborate with Democrats on a report regarding stock trading that was also commissioned by former Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Hawley voted against a proposal from Republican Senator Rick Scott of Florida and sought information about stock trades involving her husband, Paul Pelosi, over the past 25 years. This occurred during a debate about a potential stock trading ban earlier that day. Trump has been working with Senate Democrats to advance a Congressional ban on stock trading, which would limit the president’s trading powers by incorporating Pelosi’s report as an amendment.
Trump remarked, “What’s with Republicans like Josh Hawley teaming up with Democrats to block the review spearheaded by Sen. Rick Scott, supported by nearly all other Republicans regarding Pelosi’s stock trades over 25 years?” He made these comments in a post on a social platform, suggesting that Democrats have long targeted him due to his achievements.
During a press event, Trump mentioned that he “conceptually” supports the legislation but admitted he wasn’t familiar with all the specifics. He also called for an investigation into Pelosi for alleged insider trading.
“I’m not sure about it, but I like it conceptually,” Trump noted. “I’ll review the full details. However, I believe Nancy Pelosi boasts one of the highest returns in Wall Street history, which raises questions.”
After Trump’s remarks, Pelosi quickly approved the stock trading ban. Trump argued that her support for Hawley’s legislation indicates a flaw within the proposal.
“Why is Hawley backing a bill that Pelosi is all in favor of? He’s aligning with the Democrats,” Trump commented. “It’s a good deal for her and her husband, but it’s detrimental for our country!”
Hawley expressed a willingness to revise the bill if necessary. “If the president indicates he has concerns, then we can adjust it,” he told reporters, signaling his aim to find a resolution.
Scott, on the other hand, vigorously opposed the stock trading ban during discussions on the committee’s passing. He argued that the law undermines presidential authority and would serve as a politically motivated attack from Senate Democrats against Trump.
“This legislation is just a way to target the president. It gives Democrats more ammunition to go after him after all he’s faced,” Scott emphasized to a news outlet.
Hawley is known for his populist stance and often diverges from the Republican line on economic issues. Recently, he introduced a bill aimed at providing $600 tax rebates to most Americans and their dependents, which received considerable backing from his fellow GOP members.
