A man from Maryland has been taken into custody for allegedly plotting to murder Russell Vought, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The Arlington County Sheriff’s Office reported that Collin DeMarco, 26, from Rockville, is facing several charges, including attempted murder and carrying a concealed weapon.
An OMB spokesperson expressed gratitude for law enforcement’s efforts to ensure the safety of Vought and his family. Sources familiar with the situation indicated that DeMarco had specifically targeted Vought, referencing a criminal complaint that states he attempted to kill someone identified only by initials “RV,” a presidential appointee.
DeMarco was apprehended at his home on January 16, 2026, and he is currently being held without bail at the Arlington County Detention Center after being extradited to Virginia. Witnesses reported seeing a man wearing a mask and rubber gloves near Vought’s residence on August 10, 2025. This individual, reportedly carrying a concealed firearm, inquired about Vought before departing the scene.
During the investigation, police executed search warrants that yielded digital evidence. They found directions to Vought’s home, details regarding firearms owned by his relatives, and a manual with tips to evade criminal detection. The investigation revealed that DeMarco had been posting online about Vought and was seemingly encouraging others to harm him. Following these troubling indicators, DeMarco approached Vought’s residence as described.
DeMarco reportedly explained that he intended to confront Vought regarding Project 2025. Notably, he had previously been detained in November 2024 under an emergency petition for mental illness after suggesting he might harm a police officer.
In a disturbing remark captured in the complaint, DeMarco expressed a wish to die due to Donald Trump’s election as president.
