Senate Unanimously Bans Members From Betting On Prediction Markets

An amendment from Alex Padilla expanded the ban to include Senate staff, closing what lawmakers viewed as a significant loophole. Congressional aides often participate in classified briefings, draft legislation, and negotiate policy details well before information becomes public.

Because the measure was adopted as a change to Senate rules rather than standalone legislation, it did not require action from the House or a presidential signature. The rule is already in effect and applies only within the Senate. Momentum for the change accelerated after a recent criminal case involving a U.S. special forces soldier accused of using classified information to place bets tied to the capture of Nicolás Maduro.