WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump’s decision to offer paid early access to his Truth Social posts has sparked fresh scrutiny from lawmakers and ethics experts, who argue the move could give wealthy investors an unfair advantage in financial markets.
Truth Social has approximately 6.3 million monthly active users. Over the past year, the platform averaged around 5.9 million monthly users, although usage has fluctuated in response to major political developments and news events.
Trump Media and Technology Group has launched Truth API, a subscription-based service that provides customers with near-instant access to the president’s Truth Social posts seconds before they become publicly available.
According to media reports, monthly subscriptions range from $60,000 to $100,000, with several trading firms already signing up for the service.
While many of Trump’s posts focus on political commentary, he frequently uses the platform to announce major policy decisions, including tariffs, foreign policy developments and national security matters that can immediately affect stock, commodity and currency markets.
Critics say selling advance access to such announcements raises serious ethical and regulatory concerns.
Democratic Senator Mark Warner has introduced legislation aimed at ensuring government announcements remain equally accessible to the public. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Adam Schiff have also called on the Securities and Exchange Commission to investigate whether the service amounts to an improper use of the presidency for personal financial gain.
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Market analysts say even a few seconds of advance notice can provide high-frequency trading firms and sophisticated investors with a significant edge.
The controversy intensified after Trump used Truth Social to announce he was cancelling a planned military strike against Iran, a statement that contributed to an immediate decline in oil prices.
Trump has rejected criticism of his financial activities, arguing that the strong performance of financial markets since his return to office has benefited Americans broadly.
The latest dispute adds to the ongoing debate over the president’s business interests during his second term.
Recent opinion polling suggests a majority of Americans believe Trump has gone too far in pursuing personal financial interests while serving in office.
