New Jersey businessmen are behind Freedom Fuel touted by Trump

Key Points:

• President Donald Trump and his White House have promoted the Freedom Fuel Network, a convenience store chain selling gas at $3.47 per gallon, but the ownership behind the venture is complex and includes businessmen with controversial legal histories.
• The network, launched last month in the Philadelphia area, is partly owned by Blue Owl Capital, an investment firm in which Trump once held stock, though the White House denies any personal connection or involvement.
• Fourteen of the 25 Freedom Fuel stations are linked to Shamikh and Syed Kazmi, brothers with multiple civil misconduct accusations, including a court order to pay damages for unlawfully taking over 200,000 gallons of fuel.
• The company was formed in Delaware by Randy Brown, an NFL coach and GOP supporter, and Yoni Gontownik, a former investment director with political ties, neither of whom responded to requests for comment.
• Industry experts suggest the low gas prices are likely sold at a loss as a promotional tactic, with prices beginning to rise recently; the Freedom Fuel Network credits Trump's endorsement for their rapid business growth despite ongoing speculation.