Sequoia Capital, a prominent Silicon Valley venture capital firm, is closing its Washington, D.C. office and laying off its policy team by the end of March. This move contrasts with other venture capital firms that are increasing their presence in the city, particularly in light of the new Trump administration. Sequoia, typically politically neutral, has a partner, Shaun Maguire, who is an outspoken supporter of President Trump and is involved in screening candidates for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The decision to shutter the D.C. office comes after Sequoia opened it five years ago to assist companies with regulatory issues and to foster relationships with policymakers. The firm stated that it is now well-positioned to maintain these relationships in the U.S. and Europe without a dedicated policy function. Meanwhile, other firms like Andreessen Horowitz are expanding their policy teams, with former Republican congressman Patrick McHenry joining as an advisor. Michael Seibel, after over 12 years with Y Combinator, is transitioning to a Partner Emeritus role. Seibel, who joined YC as a founder and later held various leadership positions, including managing director and CEO of the YC accelerator, will continue to support the YC community through office hours and other events. He plans to explore new opportunities, including a potential return to government service. Seibel's transition comes ahead of YC's spring batch, which will run from April through June.