Overview

• Vought directed agencies to prepare Reduction in Force plans, arguing the funding lapse allows permanent cuts to the federal workforce.
• He announced a pause on $18 million for New York transportation projects and the cancellation of nearly $8 billion tied to clean‑energy initiatives in 16 Democratic‑led states.
• President Trump promoted Vought with an AI video casting him as a grim reaper, while House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries labeled him a “malignant political hack.”
• Neighbors near Vought’s Virginia home displayed pro‑federal worker signs and chalked messages criticizing his role and the impact on government employees.
• Vought is credited as an architect of Project 2025 and, in his 2025 confirmation hearings, declined to commit to following congressional spending constraints over presidential directives.