Allowing members of Congress to trade stocks is like letting referees bet on the outcome of the game — they’re supposed to be impartial, not looking for a personal win. As a concerned citizen, I’m deeply troubled that our elected officials can make personal stock trades while in office. This practice, frankly, just doesn’t pass the smell test.

It’s no wonder Congress’s approval rating hovers around the same level as root canals — only about 18% of Americans approve of its performance. When lawmakers are seen as playing the market for their own gain, it erodes public trust and fuels the perception that they’re more interested in their portfolios than in serving their constituents.

We need a clear, ironclad ban on stock trading by members of Congress. Let’s ensure that our representatives are fully focused on the public good, not their own financial bottom line.

Chad Schilleman

South Weber