A Maryland man has been charged with attempted murder after he allegedly showed up at the home of White House Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought armed with a gun. Colin Demarco, 26, claimed he feared a “fascist takeover” by President Trump, leading to his actions.
The incident took place on August 10, 2025, in Vought’s Northern Virginia neighborhood. A witness reported a suspicious person on Vought’s porch wearing a surgical mask and rubber gloves, carrying a backpack, and possibly concealing a firearm. The suspect, later identified as Demarco, inquired about Vought before leaving the scene. Home surveillance video captured the incident, aiding in Demarco’s identification.
Authorities learned that Demarco admired Luigi Mangione, the accused killer of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, and was distressed by Trump’s 2024 election win. He had traveled from Rockville, Maryland, to Vought’s home in Arlington, Virginia, but denied carrying a gun or intending harm. Demarco wanted to confront Vought about Project 2025, a policy agenda he co-authored at the Heritage Foundation, and expressed concerns about Trump’s victory leading to impending war and a fascist takeover.
Disturbing writings allegedly made by Demarco on his iCloud and Discord accounts were discovered by the US Marshals Service. He mentioned grabbing a gun to shoot Trump and expressed a desire to kill him in Washington, DC, in one message. Demarco also discussed seeking out Vought’s home to harm him, indicating a troubling mindset. His notes app contained references to his father’s gun stash and a body disposal guide.
The criminal complaint revealed that Demarco suffered a mental breakdown in November 2024 following Trump’s election win. He was taken into custody after asking a police officer to run him over or shoot him, citing his distress over Trump’s presidency. Demarco mentioned creating a manifesto and expressed intentions to harm others once completed.
Demarco faces charges of attempted murder, criminal solicitation to commit murder, carrying a concealed weapon, and wearing a mask in public to conceal identity. He is held without bond and is scheduled to appear in court on February 23. The incident highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the potential dangers of extremist ideologies. Authorities are grateful for the vigilance of law enforcement in ensuring the safety of Director Vought and his family.
