Joe Kaufman is a compensated columnist and contributor for the Gatestone Institute, an independent think tank that aligns closely with his ideological and operational goals, particularly his focus on national security and countering radical Islam. He authors articles, columns, and reports for the institute, primarily addressing topics related to Islamic extremism, terrorism, geopolitical threats, counter-terrorism, and conservative policy. Gatestone Institute has been described as a platform for counter-jihad writers, including Kaufman, whose role as a columnist places him within its organizational network.

Joe Kaufman has been compensated as a columnist/writer for Gatestone Institute, which has received funding from foreign sources, including European donors with ties to far-right movements. Gatestone's funding structure has raised concerns about foreign influence in its operations, publications, and in U.S. discourse.