GOP Sen. Josh Hawley and Democrats vote to advance congressional stock trading ban
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Senate Panel Advances Congressional Stock Trading Ban
Above: U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on July 29, 2025. Image copyright: Pete Kiehart/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
This bill is a commonsense attempt at restoring the faith of the more than 80% of Americans who don't trust their leaders. The fact that a staunch conservative like Hawley joined hands with his Democratic opponents shows that, after decades of corrupt stock-trading, members of Congress are finally putting their constituents first. Those who voted no should seriously consider changing their minds before the final floor vote.
Pro-establishment narrative
While Hawley may very well have proposed this bill in good faith, there are multiple flaws in its text that cast doubt on its intentions. America is a place where anyone, no matter their background, can work hard, make money and even rise to the highest offices in the land. It's also a redundant piece of legislation, as insider trading laws are already in place. This bill needs serious edits before it can be taken seriously.