Man Charged in Foiled Assassination Plot Against Trump Cabinet Member

Democrats remain silent on past heated rhetoric toward OMB Director Russ Vought

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A 26-year-old man named Colin Demarco has been arrested and charged with attempted murder, criminal solicitation to commit murder, wearing a mask in public to conceal identity, and carrying a concealed weapon after allegedly planning to kill Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought at his home in Arlington, Virginia. While Democrats like Sen. Chuck Schumer, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Rep. Rosa DeLauro have previously described Vought as a "threat to the country", their offices did not respond to inquiries about whether their past rhetoric could be linked to the foiled assassination plot.

Why it matters

This case raises questions about the potential consequences of heated political rhetoric, especially when directed at specific government officials. It also highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing free speech with the need to prevent political violence.

The details

According to authorities, Demarco approached Vought's residence on August 10, 2025 while wearing a surgical mask and rubber gloves, carrying a backpack, and concealing a weapon under his shirt. Police arrived on the scene in time to deter Demarco's alleged plans. A search of Demarco's communications revealed that he had expressed an intent to kill Vought in online messages. Demarco now faces four charges: attempted murder, criminal solicitation to commit murder, wearing a mask in public to conceal identity, and carrying a concealed weapon.

  • On August 10, 2025, Demarco allegedly approached Vought's residence in Arlington, Virginia.

The players

Colin Demarco

A 26-year-old man who has been charged with attempted murder, criminal solicitation to commit murder, wearing a mask in public to conceal identity, and carrying a concealed weapon in relation to an alleged plot to kill OMB Director Russ Vought.

Russ Vought

The Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the Trump administration, who has been the target of heated rhetoric from some Democratic lawmakers.

Chuck Schumer

A Democratic Senator from New York who has previously described Vought as "a danger to working people, a danger to America's beliefs and ideals".

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

A Democratic Representative from New York who has been critical of Vought in the past.

Rosa DeLauro

A Democratic Representative from Connecticut who has described Vought's plans as an attempt to "destroy and dismantle Congress' investments in our families' health, safety, and prosperity".

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What they’re saying

“I am deeply alarmed by the news that a man allegedly planned to murder OMB Director Vought. I am relieved the suspect was caught before any violence occurred.”

— Brendan Boyle, Democratic Representative from Pennsylvania (1010wcsi.com)

What’s next

Demarco is due in court on February 23 for a preliminary hearing, according to the Arlington General District Court.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the potential dangers of heated political rhetoric and the need for elected officials to be mindful of the impact their words can have, even if unintended. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in protecting public officials from threats of violence.