Trump Shares AI-Generated Video Featuring Russell Vought Amid Government Shutdown
Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, President Donald Trump shared an AI-generated video set to the tune of “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult. The video quickly gained traction online, showcasing Russell Vought, the president’s chief budget advisor, depicted as the Grim Reaper of Washington, D.C. Vought is a pivotal figure in Trump’s administration, known for his role in the campaign to overhaul government operations and his significant influence in Trump’s second term.
As the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), Vought holds one of the most influential positions in Washington. His tenure has been marked by strategic moves to control government funding and reshape federal operations, earning him a reputation akin to a “shadow president.” Despite his behind-the-scenes approach, Vought’s impact on the Trump administration is undeniable.
Key insights into Vought’s role and influence reveal his rise from humble beginnings to a powerful position within the Republican Party. Read ProPublica’s full investigation here. (Vought declined to comment for the article, and his spokesperson at OMB remained silent on a detailed list of inquiries.)
From Mail Room to Political Force
Russell Vought’s journey began in Trumbull, Connecticut. Starting in the mail room for Republican Sen. Phil Gramm of Texas, Vought climbed the GOP ranks, ultimately advising then-Rep. Mike Pence. Disillusioned by party members who compromised on fiscal conservatism, Vought co-founded Heritage Action for America in 2010, a group dedicated to enforcing conservative principles among congressional Republicans.
OMB’s Role Amplifies Vought’s Authority
As a cabinet member alongside high-profile positions like the Secretary of Defense and Attorney General, Vought’s role as OMB Director is crucial. The OMB oversees the allocation of congressional funds, reviews federal regulations, and issues policies impacting over two million federal employees. Sam Bagenstos, a former OMB official, explained, “Every goddam thing in the executive branch goes through OMB.”
Involvement in Trump’s First Impeachment
During his previous stint as OMB Director, Vought played a key role in the controversial withholding of $214 million in security assistance to Ukraine, which led to Trump’s first impeachment. The Government Accountability Office later deemed the impoundment illegal. Despite criticism, Vought and his ally Mark Paoletta defended the action as part of a long-standing presidential power, although legal experts contested this interpretation.
Coining “Woke and Weaponized”
In 2021, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, aiming to sustain the MAGA movement. He is credited with popularizing the term “woke and weaponized” to critique policies and entities opposing the MAGA agenda. Vought stated, “If you’re watching television and the words ‘woke and weaponized’ come out of a politician’s mouth, you can know that this is coming … from the strategies we’re putting out.”
Visionary of Project 2025
Vought’s influence extends to Project 2025, a strategic plan for a future Republican administration. His early work involved proposing radical changes to federal agencies, some of which have been realized in Trump’s second term. Vought’s ambitions included eliminating or restructuring various federal departments, reflecting his extreme, budget-cutting approach.
Guiding Project 2025’s Impact
Vought played a crucial role in Project 2025, crafting executive orders and plans to enhance presidential power. Despite Trump’s public disassociation from the project, Vought’s involvement has been instrumental in advancing its policy goals. Trump’s recent acknowledgment of Vought highlights his ongoing influence within the administration.
Collaboration with Elon Musk
Elon Musk, through his Department of Government Efficiency, has implemented extensive budget cuts, largely directed by Vought, according to insiders. Vought’s strategic input guided Musk’s efforts, enabling dramatic administrative changes. An official noted, “He has the benefit of Elon softening everyone up. Elon terrified the shit out of people. He broke the status quo.”
Pressuring Democrats in Shutdown Negotiations
During the shutdown, Vought has frozen $26 billion in funding for infrastructure and clean energy projects in Democratic states. This move aims to pressure Democrats into negotiating with Republicans. A senior agency official remarked, “It feels like we work for Russ Vought. He has centralized decision-making power to an extent that he is the commander in chief.”
