Maryland Man Charged in Alleged Plot Targeting OMB Director Russell Vought

Colin Demarco, a 26-year-old Maryland man, is facing attempted murder charges in Arlington County, Virginia. This follows an alleged plot targeting Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought. Demarco was arrested on January 22 by Arlington County Police.

Incident at Vought's Residence

According to court documents, Demarco appeared at Vought's Northern Virginia home on August 10. He was observed on a Ring doorbell camera wearing a surgical mask, gloves, sunglasses, and a backpack. He was also seen checking Vought's mailbox and reportedly asked a neighbor if anyone was home.

The neighbor informed investigators that Demarco appeared to have a gun concealed under his shirt.

Demarco's Statements and Evidence

When interviewed by U.S. Marshals Service agents at his Rockville home, Demarco admitted to traveling to Arlington. Initially, he claimed he was looking for a job, but later stated he wanted to confront Vought about Project 2025, an initiative by the conservative Heritage Foundation to reshape government. Demarco denied possessing a gun or intending harm.

He described the November 2024 election as "the lowest point in his life" and expressed fears of an "impending war and a fascist takeover."

Investigators obtained a search warrant for Demarco's iCloud account. There, they reportedly found notes titled "Body Disposal Guide" and "Dad's Gun Stash," which detailed a .357 Magnum Colt revolver.

Demarco also allegedly exchanged messages on Discord, expressing a desire to harm the president and specifically mentioning Vought. He stated, "I found this guy's address," and asked if others would "Luigi him," referencing Luigi Mangione, who is charged with the murder of former United Health CEO Brian Thompson.

Russell Vought's Background and Threats

Russell Vought, a presidential appointee, has been a central figure in the creation of Project 2025. He is also known as the architect of Schedule F, a regulatory plan that would reclassify federal workers to facilitate their removal. Vought has faced numerous violent threats since last year, leading to his protection by a security detail from the U.S. Marshals Service.

Prior Law Enforcement Contact

In November 2024, Demarco was taken into custody in Maryland under a mental illness emergency petition. During this incident, he allegedly told a police officer he wished to die due to the presidential election results.

He also claimed he had created a manifesto, stating that upon its completion, he would "kill people."