Representative Gilbert Cisneros of California drew much attention with his January 12 financial disclosure, as it became apparent that he has, in less than a month, enjoyed a 54% return on a December investment in a prominent war stock.
Specifically, the politician purchased up to $15,000 worth of shares of a drone company known as AeroVironment (NASDAQ: AVAV) on December 15. At the time, AVAV stock was trading at $235.32 and had, by press time on January 14, soared to $363.86.
Along with its remarkable and swift growth since the purchase, the trade is suspect due to Cosneros’ participation with several relevant Congressional committees.
Why Representative Cisneros’ AeroVironment stock purchase is suspect
Indeed, Representative Gil Cisneros is a member of the Committee on Armed Services and, even more interestingly, the Intelligence and Special Operations and Military Personnel subcommittees.
Under the circumstances, it is easy to see that the Congressman could have had foreknowledge of multiple military moves that could have reminded the public of the importance of advanced drones, the likes of AeroVironment makes.
Between the purchase date and press time on January 14, 2026, the U.S. bombed Nigeria, executed a special forces operation in Venezuela, threatened military action against half a dozen countries, including a NATO ally, Denmark, and is allegedly in advanced stages of planning a strike against Iran.
Additionally, U.S. war stocks also got a bullish catalyst from President Donald Trump’s recent remarks that the 2027 defense budget should come in at $1.5 trillion – more than 60% higher than the latest approved budget.
Still, it is worth pointing out that the majority of American politicians maintain that they have no personal control over their investment portfolios and that any and all suspiciously successful trades – such as the timely purchase of AVAV shares – are purely accidental.
Featured image via Shutterstock
