A Rockville resident, Colin Demarco, 26, is facing charges of attempted murder after allegedly visiting the home of Russell Vought, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, while wearing a mask and surgical gloves. According to court documents, Demarco expressed fears of an impending war and a fascist takeover following President Donald Trump’s reelection, leading him to seek out what he claimed was an intended target.
The incident unfolded shortly after Demarco reportedly solicited violence online. Law enforcement sources indicate that he had reached out to individuals on the social platform Discord, inquiring whether they would engage in violent acts, and mentioning another individual involved in a violent crime.
A doorbell camera captured Demarco’s approach to Vought’s Arlington residence, where he inquired with a neighbor about the appointee’s whereabouts. The criminal complaint, which remains unsealed, did not initially identify the intended victim but later confirmed his identity through various reports. Following the incident, the U.S. Marshals Service identified Demarco and conducted an interview, where he initially denied visiting the home but later claimed he sought directions and wanted to confront someone at the location associated with Project 2025, though he asserted that he did not intend to cause harm.
An OMB spokesperson expressed appreciation for law enforcement’s role in ensuring the safety of Director Vought and his family amidst these troubling events. Experts have commented on the rising trend of political violence being cultivated within online communities, suggesting that this behavior is increasingly widespread across the political spectrum. Matt Dallek, a professor at George Washington University, noted that the escalation of politically motivated violence is becoming a significant concern.
Demarco remains in custody without bail as the investigation continues, and the criminal complaint outlines further allegations against him, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the current climate surrounding political discourse. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for online interactions to translate into real-world violence, and authorities are working diligently to address such threats.