Washington – The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) announced Friday that Gabriel Perez, a former teleprompter operator for the White House, must return $107,500 in profits he earned by betting on what President Donald Trump would say in speeches. The settlement also includes a $65,000 civil penalty and a three‑year ban on trading in prediction markets.
Insider trading allegations
According to the CFTC, Perez used his position to obtain advance knowledge of the President’s remarks between December 2025 and February 2026. He placed wagers on the prediction‑market platform Kalshi, betting on specific words and phrases that later appeared in Trump’s public addresses. The commission concluded that Perez “misappropriated that information – in breach of his duty of trust and confidence.”
Settlement details
The settlement requires Perez to repay the full $107,500 in gains and to pay the $65,000 civil penalty, which the commission described as reduced in recognition of his “exemplary cooperation.” In addition, the CFTC imposed a three‑year prohibition on any future trading in prediction markets.
White House officials declined to comment on the settlement. A spokesperson noted in July that Perez was no longer employed at the White House, but did not specify whether he resigned or was terminated.
White House response
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called the conduct “unfortunate” and “a disgrace,” emphasizing the administration’s commitment to ethical standards and the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the President’s communications.
Broader context
This case underscores the heightened scrutiny of individuals who have access to privileged information about the President’s agenda. While the CFTC’s action is focused on the financial misconduct, it also serves as a reminder that public servants must uphold the highest standards of trust.
President Trump’s administration has repeatedly highlighted its dedication to transparency and accountability in government. By cooperating fully with regulators, Perez’s case demonstrates that the administration is willing to address wrongdoing swiftly and enforce appropriate penalties.
What it means for the public
For citizens, the settlement reinforces the principle that no one is above the law, even those who work in close proximity to the President. The CFTC’s enforcement action protects the fairness of prediction markets and helps maintain confidence that market participants are competing on a level playing field.
As the administration continues to focus on restoring confidence in government institutions, this outcome aligns with its broader goals of promoting ethical conduct, protecting the public’s trust, and ensuring that the President’s words are used solely for their intended purpose – guiding the nation.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
