Federal agency head Russ Vought’s latest memo, requiring detailed plans for mass layoffs in case of a government shutdown, symbolizes his methodical march to accumulate power within the executive branch. Vought has transformed OMB into a tool to dismantle federal agencies and spending plans, using its suite of bureaucratic tools to reverse-engineer its authorities.
The Trump administration’s priorities have been driven by Vought’s long-term plan to drastically overhaul the shape of the federal government. He crafted the first successful legislative effort to cancel funds appropriated by Congress, followed by other moves to seize power from lawmakers. Vought played a critical role in securing Republican votes for key legislation and has been appointed to lead agencies he once disdained.
Vought’s approach clashed with some powerful officials, but he reserved his disdain for lawyers working in the White House counsel’s office. He formed an ideological bond with OMB General Counsel Mark Paoletta, who helped him devise plans to cut money that Congress had already allocated. Vought’s actions led to Trump’s first impeachment and have continued to shape the administration’s priorities.
Vought now operates with a high level of autonomy, operating outside traditional bureaucratic boundaries. He has boosted like-minded candidates and lawmakers, provided training for acolytes, and helped secure key legislative wins. His approach is focused on using executive authority aggressively when Congress grants it too broad an authority.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/10/02/politics/russ-vought-shutdown-architect