As North Carolinians continue paying higher prices at the gas pump, Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley’s investments in Big Oil are continuing to grow in value.
Recent reporting detailed how rising global oil prices tied to the war in Iran have increased the value of Whatley’s oil and gas holdings by as much as $219,660. Whatley and his family hold investments in major oil companies, including Chevron, ExxonMobil, and ConocoPhillips, while families across the state continue struggling with rising fuel and energy costs.
The growing scrutiny around Whatley’s investments also comes as oil companies continue reporting massive earnings. Climate Power previously warned that Whatley’s elevation within the Republican Party reflected Big Oil’s growing influence in national politics, pointing to his longtime ties to the fossil fuel industry.
“As of today, Big Oil has installed a direct line to the head of the RNC, boosting their influence across the party and keeping the revolving door spinning,” said Climate Power senior advisor for oil and gas Alex Witt. “Big Oil is already bankrolling Trump and MAGA Republicans; now, through Michael Whatley, they’ll have a big say in where the money goes in 2024.”
As North Carolinians pay more to fill up their tanks, Whatley’s financial disclosures continue to show deep investments in the very companies benefiting from those rising prices.
