This is yet anoher reason why persons holding significant office (Gov, AG, House Rep, Sen, Pres etc.) should place ALL of their investments in a blind trust until such time as they are no longer in a position of influence. If they don't know where their money is then they can't be accused of insider or preferential trading. This also allows them to participate, through their trust, in good investing strategies that they would be unable to manage if handled individually. (i.e. bank stocks, oil stocks etc.)