Just hours after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day suspension of broad tariffs, Democratic lawmakers voiced serious concerns over possible insider trading and market manipulation linked to his abrupt policy shift and market-influencing social media posts.
In a video message shared on X, Senator Chris Murphy warned that “an insider trading scandal is brewing.” He pointed out that shortly after Trump posted on social media around 9:30 a.m. ET, calling it a “good time to buy,” the administration unexpectedly revealed a suspension of tariffs on most countries—excluding China.
The markets, which had been trending downward earlier in the day, suddenly rebounded following the announcement. This dramatic reversal raised suspicions about whether individuals with advance knowledge of the decision might have profited from the timing.
Murphy criticized the unpredictability of the administration’s tariff strategy, stating, “The bottom line is that the chaotic nature of this tariff policy gives ample opportunity for any individual who has early access to information to make boatloads of money.” He added, “This entire White House is one giant grift.”
Senator Elizabeth Warren echoed these concerns, calling for an independent investigation into whether Trump or members of his administration manipulated financial markets for personal or political advantage.
In a post on X, Warren questioned, “Did Trump help insiders cash in on his tariff flip-flopping? It sure looks like corruption.” Accompanying her post was a video of her speaking on the Senate floor, where she emphasized the need for accountability.
“He posted ‘THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY’ in all caps—was that market manipulation? Was it corruption in plain sight?” she asked, citing the instability such actions create for businesses and consumers navigating shifting trade policies.
Warren also urged swift Congressional action, highlighting a bipartisan resolution she co-sponsored with Senator Ron Wyden to limit the president’s unilateral authority over tariffs. She described Trump’s trade approach as “worldwide and chaotic,” emphasizing the urgent need for oversight.
