Nancy Pelosi Reacts to Trump’s State of the Union Address

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi appeared on CNN on Tuesday, discussing President Donald Trump’s remarks about her during his State of the Union speech, specifically regarding Congressional stock trading.

When CNN’s Casey Hunt asked her how she would respond to Trump’s comments, Pelosi’s answer seemed a bit hesitant. “My response to him is, look at yourself, because the members said that,” she remarked. “He’s implying there’s something wrong here, but if there was really something wrong, people would be prosecuted for it. We’ve been trying to pass this legislation for quite some time. The support for the bill has actually grown, and—”

Hunt interrupted her, noting that Senator Elizabeth Warren was seen “standing up and clapping” during that part of the speech. To this, Pelosi quickly replied, “Well, we all did that. So did I. Yes, a lot of people stood up, many Democrats did.”

During his address, Trump criticized insider trading among Congress members, urging lawmakers to pass legislation tackling the issue immediately while taking a jab at Pelosi in the process.

“Let’s also ensure that members of Congress can’t exploit insider information for personal gains,” Trump emphasized, encouraging everyone in the room to stand in support.

He later added, “They stood up for it. I can’t believe it. Did Nancy Pelosi stand up for it, if she was here? I doubt it.”

Pelosi, alongside her husband Paul, has faced scrutiny over their substantial business dealings throughout her political career, which has garnered considerable wealth. The New York Times even noted a perception that she may be on the unpopular side of the ongoing Congressional stock trading debate.

The Insider Trading Act, proposed by Representative Brian Still of Wisconsin, seeks to prohibit members of Congress, along with their spouses and dependent children, from purchasing publicly traded stocks. It would also require public notice prior to any sales, moving beyond the existing requirements established by earlier legislation.

According to sources, Pelosi reportedly applauded until Trump called her out. In addition, Trump unveiled a new retirement savings initiative aimed at employees lacking employer contributions, pledging government support of up to $1,000 annually to help more Americans benefit from market growth.

While attempts to reach Pelosi’s office for comment about these developments were unsuccessful, it’s clear that the dynamics surrounding stock trading and Congressional ethics continue to be a contentious topic.