1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

Donald Trump had an opportunity to push for legislation banning members of Congress from trading stocks, something he previously voiced support for and that is overwhelmingly popular with the public. However, when a bipartisan group of senators advanced such a bill in committee, Trump attacked one of its Republican sponsors, Josh Hawley. This stance contradicts Trump's earlier claims of wanting to "drain the swamp" in Washington. The STOCK Act of 2012, which aimed to prevent insider trading by lawmakers, has proven ineffective. Numerous members of Congress continue profiting from trades related to their legislative work, and routinely file required disclosures late without consequence. A comprehensive ban on stock trading by members of Congress and forcing divestment of existing holdings is a straightforward solution to this ethical conflict of interest. Trump's opposition to this common-sense reform that would promote integrity and restore public trust exposes the hollowness of his "drain the swamp" rhetoric. Rather than taking decisive action against self-enrichment and corruption in government, Trump himself has doubled his personal fortune while in office through questionable business ventures. His presidency has exemplified the very "swamp" he claimed to be against. Trump should support a robust stock trading ban for members of Congress without further delay or excuse. Doing so would be one of the easiest ways for him to demonstrate a genuine commitment to ethics in government. However, his recent attacks against congressional efforts make clear that Trump prioritizes personal interests over substantive anti-corruption reforms that could restrain him and his allies. This disappointing stance affirms that Trump is, in fact, the embodiment of theD.C. "swamp" he vowed to drain.