On Friday, Democrats avoided questions regarding the potential link between their past critical remarks about Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought and the recent arrest of a man accused of attempting to kill him.
Authorities apprehended Colin DeMarco, 26, last year at Vought’s home, where he was armed and expressed his intent to kill Vought.
Neither the offices of several Democratic leaders—including Senators Chuck Schumer, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Elizabeth Warren, and Representative Rosa DeLauro—who have previously labeled Vought as a national threat responded to inquiries from Fox News Digital.
Rep. Brendan Boyle from Pennsylvania did not comment on the harsh language used by colleagues but condemned the alleged murder plot. He stated, “I am incredibly alarmed by reports that a man allegedly plotted to kill OMB Director Vought, and I am relieved that the suspect was arrested before violence erupted.” Further, he emphasized that political violence undermines both individuals and democracy.
Yet, many Democrats, Boyle included, have long denounced Vought as a significant national threat. He had previously remarked during Vought’s nomination process that Vought’s views presented a direct danger to democracy and the rule of law.
In a Senate speech, Schumer characterized Vought as perilous to working individuals and American values.
Authorities noted that DeMarco approached Vought’s residence in Arlington, Virginia, wearing a surgical mask, rubber gloves, a backpack, and concealing a weapon under his shirt. Thankfully, they intervened before any harm could come to Vought.
An examination of DeMarco’s communications revealed he had made statements expressing his intention to kill Vought. He faces multiple charges including attempted murder, abetting murder, and carrying a concealed weapon.
Vought was one of Donald Trump’s earliest cabinet appointments and played a crucial role in the administration prior to the election. He’s also identified as a key figure behind Project 2025, a conservative policy platform addressing various issues like immigration and federal funding.
His advocacy for reducing the government’s size has drawn significant backlash, especially from critics like Warren, who warned that Vought’s policies could be detrimental to workers. She remarked, “You can absolutely bet that Mr. Russ Vought will pull the rug out from under the workers over and over again.”
Echoing her sentiments, other Democrats expressed similar concerns about Vought’s extremist tendencies. DeLauro criticized him as someone who believes in an “omnipotent” presidency with a radical agenda aimed at dismantling crucial government programs. DeMarco is set to appear in court for a preliminary hearing on February 23.
