Sequoia closes Washington D.C. office and policy team

Sequoia Capital will close its Washington, D.C. office and lay off its policy team at the end of March. This decision was confirmed by TechCrunch. It marks a shift as many other venture capital firms in Silicon Valley are increasing their connections with government, especially during the new Trump administration. Sequoia opened its D.C. office five years ago to help companies with regulatory challenges and to strengthen relationships with policymakers. However, a spokesperson mentioned that Sequoia feels ready to continue these relationships without a dedicated policy team. The closure will affect multiple employees, including policy fellows and three full-time staff members. Although Sequoia tends to remain politically neutral, some partners have shared their political opinions. Notably, partner Shaun Maguire has been a vocal supporter of President Trump.