Venezuela Dilemma: Which Members of Congress Are Tied to Big Oil

A recent article examining congressional exposure to the energy sector cited data from Capitol Trades to highlight how deeply invested some US lawmakers are in Big Oil. Using Capitol Trades’ aggregation of financial disclosures, the analysis showed that members of Congress collectively hold $33.69 million in personal investments linked to major energy companies.

These disclosures offer more than just a snapshot of wealth. They raise broader questions about how financial exposure to the oil and gas industry intersects with policy decisions, particularly at a time when Venezuela and its vast energy resources are once again central to US foreign policy discussions.

Members of Congress from both major parties report significant holdings across oil producers, refiners, and energy infrastructure firms. While owning stocks is legal, the scale of these investments becomes more relevant when lawmakers are asked to vote on matters that could materially affect the energy market.

Based on Capitol Trades data, the following lawmakers report the largest personal investments tied to Big Oil.

Top 10 Members of Congress by Personal Big Oil Investment

10. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) - Total: $577,000

9. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-MI) - Total: $584,000

8. Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) - Total: $639,000

7. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) - Total: $701,000

6. Sen. Dave McCormick (R-PA) - Total: $750,000

5. Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) - Total: $1.11 million

4. Rep. Jefferson Shreve (R-IN) - Total: $1.30 million

3. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) - Total: $1.55 million

2. Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK) - Total: $5.85 million

1. Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) - Total: $9.25 million

Venezuela holds the largest proven oil reserves in the world, making it strategically significant for global energy markets. Any shift in US policy toward Venezuela has the potential to affect oil supply, pricing, and the competitive position of American energy companies.

Former President Donald Trump publicly linked potential US involvement in Venezuela to access and influence over its oil industry. Statements from senior officials at the time reinforced the idea that Venezuelan energy assets were viewed as a strategic prize rather than a purely diplomatic concern.

When lawmakers with substantial personal exposure to the energy sector are asked to weigh in on foreign policy that could reshape oil markets, scrutiny is inevitable. The US Constitution grants Congress the sole authority to authorize military action, placing significant responsibility on elected officials to separate national interest from personal financial considerations.

Capitol Trades data does not suggest intent or motive. It does, however, provide transparency. By making these investments visible, the data allows the public, researchers, and journalists to better evaluate potential conflicts and follow how financial exposure aligns with legislative decisions.

As debates over Venezuela continue, congressional votes and public statements will remain an important area to watch, particularly in light of the financial ties revealed through disclosure data.