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Trump DOGE Official's Contract Role Linked to Personal Investments in Thrive Capital Portfolio Companies

Wall Street Journal Markets •
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Josh Gruenbaum, a senior Trump adviser recruited for DOGE, oversaw federal contracts for tech companies backed by Thrive Capital while he was personally invested in the firm's funds. Financial disclosure documents reveal this connection as Gruenbaum led $115 billion in federal purchasing as commissioner of the Federal Acquisition Service.

Thrive Capital, founded by Joshua Kushner, holds stakes in multiple technology firms that received government work. Gruenbaum managed one contract award and advocated for another contract for these portfolio companies during his tenure at the General Services Administration.

The overlap raises questions about potential conflicts of interest in federal procurement decisions. Gruenbaum also serves as a senior adviser to President Trump's Board of Peace, expanding his influence across multiple administration roles.

Federal contracting rules require officials to recuse themselves from decisions involving personal financial interests. This situation highlights ongoing scrutiny of DOGE's operations and the intersection of private investments with public sector contracting authority.