Rockville Man Accused of Plotting Attack on Trump Administration Official

Authorities say the suspect feared a "fascist takeover" after Trump's reelection

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A 26-year-old Rockville man named Colin Demarco is accused of attempted murder after allegedly showing up at the home of a presidential appointee, Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought, while wearing a mask and surgical gloves. Demarco reportedly told investigators he feared "impending war and a fascist takeover" following President Trump's reelection and had asked others online to carry out violence.

Why it matters

This case reflects a broader trend of political violence being encouraged in online communities, according to experts. The alleged plot highlights concerns about the rise of politically-motivated attacks, even against high-level government officials.

The details

Court documents state a doorbell camera captured Demarco approaching Vought's Arlington home, and he later asked a neighbor if the victim was home. Demarco initially denied going to the home but later said he knocked on the door to confront someone associated with "Project 2025", though he claimed he did not intend to harm anyone. Days before, Demarco had asked at least three people on Discord if they were willing to carry out violence, referencing another recent killing.

  • On February 3, 2026, Demarco allegedly went to Vought's home in Arlington, Virginia.
  • In the days prior to February 3, Demarco reportedly asked people online if they were willing to carry out violence.

The players

Colin Demarco

A 26-year-old man from Rockville, Maryland who is accused of attempted murder and plotting an attack against a presidential appointee.

Russell Vought

The Director of the Office of Management and Budget, a presidential appointee who was allegedly targeted by Demarco.

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What they’re saying

“It's another reminder that the ways in which political violence is getting expressed now, is it's flowing more and more on all sides. It's not necessarily limited to one particular movement. That makes it an even bigger problem, because political violence has become more endemic in recent years.”

— Matt Dallek, Professor, George Washington University (ABC News)

What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to grant bail for Colin Demarco at a hearing on February 10, 2026.

The takeaway

This alleged plot highlights the growing concerns about politically-motivated violence and the need for vigilance in protecting government officials, even at the highest levels, as extremist rhetoric and calls for violence spread online.