U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Wednesday that he is pressing lawmakers to outlaw single-stock trading by members of Congress, arguing that the public ‘deserves better than politicians with hedge-fund level returns.’ In remarks reported by several financial outlets, Bessent added that “if any private citizen traded this way, the SEC would be knocking on their door,” a reference to accusations that some legislators profit from non-public information. Bessent’s call intensifies pressure on Capitol Hill, where a bipartisan group of senators advanced the HONEST Act last month to curb lawmakers’ individual stock dealings. The Senate bill would require lawmakers and their immediate families to divest most direct holdings within 90 days of enactment, while allowing diversified mutual-fund investments. Critics, including Bessent, say loopholes remain and tougher restrictions are needed. House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi—whom Bessent singled out in his remarks—has previously expressed support for tighter trading rules despite scrutiny of her family’s portfolio. The Treasury chief did not outline a timeline for new legislation but indicated the administration is ready to work with Congress on a more comprehensive ban.