Maryland Man Charged with Attempted Murder of OMB Director

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A 26-year-old Maryland resident named Colin Demarco has been charged with attempted murder, criminal solicitation to commit murder, and carrying a concealed weapon after allegedly plotting to kill White House budget director Russell Vought. Demarco is accused of showing up at Vought's Virginia home last year wearing a mask and gloves and possibly concealing a firearm, and inquiring about the director.

Why it matters

The attempted murder of a high-ranking government official like the White House budget director is a serious threat to national security and the stability of the federal government. The case raises concerns about the potential for politically-motivated violence and the need for robust security measures to protect public servants.

The details

According to police, Demarco was taken into custody at his Maryland home on January 16th. He was later transferred to Virginia and is being held without bond at the Arlington County Detention Facility. Authorities say they were called to Vought's Virginia residence on August 10th after a witness reported seeing a man matching Demarco's description on the victim's porch, wearing a surgical mask and rubber gloves and possibly concealing a firearm. The suspect allegedly inquired about Vought before leaving the scene. Police later identified Demarco as the suspect, and executed search warrants that uncovered evidence he had obtained directions to Vought's home and had online discussions appearing to solicit others to kill the budget director.

• On August 10, a witness reported seeing a man matching the suspect's description at Vought's Virginia home.
• On January 16, police arrested Colin Demarco at his Maryland home.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Colin Demarco out on bail.