Sununu’s Investments Soar with Rising Costs in Gas, Food, and Medicine

John Sununu’s Investments Thrive Amid Rising Costs

Republican John Sununu, a candidate for the U.S. Senate in New Hampshire, has seen financial gains from increasing prices on essential goods, as reported by his campaign finance documents.

Sununu, who previously served in the Senate from 2003 to 2009, has substantial investments in the stock market, with a net worth reaching up to $36.3 million. The surge in prices due to tariffs and the ongoing Iran conflict has boosted the value of companies in which he holds stakes, making affordability a key issue in the upcoming election.

His significant investments in oil and gas are notably impacted by the Iran war, which has disrupted global oil trade and led to soaring gas prices. U.S.-based gas companies have capitalized on these disruptions, charging higher prices and increasing profits. Sununu’s portfolio includes up to $50,000 in ExxonMobil and up to $65,000 in Shell, with his gas-related investments growing by approximately 24% as fuel costs escalated for New Hampshire residents.

Sununu has publicly backed the Iran war, despite its unpopularity, citing benefits for the global and American economies as well as national security.

Additionally, Sununu holds significant investments in food retail companies that have profited from rising grocery prices. His portfolio includes up to $150,000 in Wal-Mart, up to $100,000 in PepsiCo, and up to $100,000 in Coca-Cola. Factors such as increased shipping costs and tariff policies have driven food prices higher, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a 2.4% rise in food prices in 2025 and coffee prices spiking by 21% due to Brazilian tariffs.

Sununu’s investments in PepsiCo, Wal-Mart, and Coca-Cola saw increases of 4%, 34%, and 21% respectively, collectively raising their value by at least $50,000. Despite these increases, Sununu has minimized the tariffs’ impact on the economy.

Sununu’s investments extend to the pharmaceutical sector, with up to $425,000 in stocks and bonds, including holdings in Pfizer and Merck. Though the White House announced lower drug prices in September 2025, these companies subsequently raised prices, with Pfizer’s COVID shot increasing by 15% and Merck’s prices rising on 18 products.

During his Senate tenure, Sununu opposed measures that would allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices and blocked the importation of cheaper Canadian drugs. He later worked as a lobbyist for a firm representing Pfizer and Merck.

Sununu will compete against former Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown in the Sept. 8 primary. The primary victor is anticipated to face Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas in the November election.