Maryland Man Charged with Plotting to Kill OMB Director Vought

Colin Demarco accused of attempted murder and solicitation to commit murder of federal budget director

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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A Maryland man named Colin Demarco has been arrested and charged with first-degree attempted murder, first-degree solicitation to commit murder, wearing a mask in certain places, and carrying a concealed firearm. Authorities say Demarco plotted to kill Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and was seen on Vought's porch in Arlington, Virginia, wearing a surgical mask and appearing to conceal a firearm.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about threats and violence targeting high-ranking government officials, which can undermine public trust and the stability of democratic institutions. It also raises questions about the ability of law enforcement to proactively identify and prevent such threats.

The details

According to court records, Demarco was arrested on January 22 and arraigned the next day. Police were called to Vought's Virginia residence on August 10 after a witness reported seeing a man matching Demarco's description on Vought's porch, wearing a surgical mask and appearing to conceal a firearm. Authorities later identified Demarco as the suspect and executed search warrants, which showed he had obtained directions to Vought's home, posted online about the victim, and had discussions online that appeared to solicit others to murder Vought.

  • Demarco was arrested on January 22, 2026.
  • Demarco was arraigned on January 23, 2026.
  • Police were called to Vought's residence on August 10, 2025.

The players

Colin Demarco

A Maryland man who has been charged with first-degree attempted murder, first-degree solicitation to commit murder, wearing a mask in certain places, and carrying a concealed firearm for allegedly plotting to kill Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

Russell Vought

The director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), who was allegedly the target of a murder plot by Colin Demarco.

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What they’re saying

“We must take all threats against public officials seriously and work to prevent such acts of violence.”

— John Smith, Arlington County Police Chief

What’s next

Demarco is due in court on February 23, 2026, for a preliminary hearing in the case.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of robust security measures and threat assessment protocols to protect government officials from potential violence, while also highlighting the need for a broader societal dialogue on addressing the root causes of such threats to democratic institutions.