Trump Takes Aim at Senator Hawley Over Stock Ban Bill, But Hawley Stands His Ground

Clash in the MAGA Ranks: Trump Blasts Senator Hawley, But Hawley Pushes Back with Calm Confidence

In a surprising twist within the Republican party, former President Donald Trump publicly criticized one of his own—Missouri Senator Josh Hawley—for pushing forward a bill to ban stock trading by top U.S. officials, including Congress members, the president, and the vice president.

Trump’s post on Truth Social took a jab at Hawley after the Senate advanced the legislation. Trump expressed frustration, claiming the bill would benefit Democrats, especially former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who has long faced public scrutiny over her husband’s stock dealings. “Why would Hawley support a bill Pelosi loves? He’s playing into Democrat hands,” Trump wrote, even labeling Hawley a “second-tier” senator.

Despite the harsh words, Hawley didn’t retaliate with fire. Instead, he responded with calm assurance during an interview on Fox News. He revealed that he had spoken with Trump directly after the remarks. “We had a positive conversation,” Hawley said. “He made it clear he wants to see a ban on congressional stock trading—exactly what we passed today.”

Hawley clarified a misunderstanding that may have sparked Trump’s anger. Some had falsely claimed the bill would force Trump to sell Mar-a-Lago or divest personal assets. Hawley corrected the record: the bill exempts current presidential assets entirely. Trump would only be affected if re-elected and then only at the start of his new term.

Washington is debating whether lawmakers and key officials can trade stocks while in office. The problem gained steam after COVID-19 reports showed lawmakers trading stocks after getting crucial briefings, triggering insider advantage charges.

For years, Hawley has advocated for this reform to bridge the public service-private financial gain imbalance. Even though it would put him at odds with Trump, Hawley sided with Democrats to deny the president’s exemption from this measure.

As the political attention switches to 2026, this confrontation between a top MAGA official and the movement’s creator shows the turmoil behind the surface. Will party unity hold as calls for ethical reform grow louder? Or is this the beginning of a new kind of power struggle within the GOP?

For now, Senator Hawley appears unshaken—sticking to principle even as pressure mounts from the top.