Impending Government Cuts and the Role of Russ Vought

Some view Trump’s advisor Russ Vought as a figure of fear, almost likening him to a grim reaper. Neighbors speculate he may intend to inflict “maximum trauma.” Senate leader John Thune even suggested that Democrats should brace for a jolt.

Yet, those who know Vought well seem to think it’s about time. Democrats ought to be worried, as Vought—who previously served as Trump’s executive and budget director—has been honing a comprehensive plan to reduce government size for years.

On September 24, Vought sent a memo to federal agencies urging them to prepare for budget cuts, which could include layoffs and adjustments as a government shutdown looms. This memo also served as a warning, hinting that Democrats refusing to back a continuing resolution (CR) would see repercussions for their cherished administrative state.

The government effectively shut down on October 1, following Senate Democrats’ rejection of a CR that sought to raise Medicaid funding, among other things.

In a strategic move, Trump and Vought discussed which federal entities might face cuts. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt informed callers that layoffs seem “imminent,” with thousands possibly losing their jobs.

Ken Cuccinelli, a senior fellow at the Center for Renewing America (CRA), mentioned that Vought, along with his former colleague Mark Paoletta, has been pivotal in the planning of these cuts in light of the shutdown. Vought founded the CRA after leaving the White House in 2021.

Cuccinelli noted that Vought has been preparing for this situation well before the current crisis. He suggested that Vought likely began strategizing back in 2021, well in advance of the shutdown.

The approach to potential government cuts seems to have thrown Democrats into a state of alarm. Some even liken it to a chaotic situation reminiscent of Elon Musk’s operational maneuvers.

Concerns have surfaced among Democrats about their party infrastructure being compromised due to these anticipated layoffs during what they are calling Schumer’s shutdown.

Cuccinelli pointed out that having an OMB director like Vought, who operates outside the White House, has considerable implications for the running of the federal government and the ability to effect large-scale changes.

Vought’s methodical dismantling of government programs is viewed differently than Musk’s more haphazard approach. Cuccinelli believes that Vought’s careful planning reduces the chances of “unintended consequences” that could backfire politically.

Vought’s background in budget issues traces back to Texas Senator Phil Gramm, a proponent of fiscal restraint, which has been integral to his career. Previous roles for Vought included being policy director for the House Republican Conference and executive director of the Republican Study Committee.

Interestingly, Vought contemplated leaving politics for ministry before Trump’s election. He is a devout Christian, leading Bible studies at his Baptist church.

Tapped as OMB director in January 2019, Vought was confirmed by the Senate in July 2020. After Trump’s first term, he established the Center for Renewing America, aimed at dismantling federal bureaucracy that resisted Trump’s agenda.

People familiar with Vought’s work suggest that the current government shutdown echoes his efforts to implement long-thought-out policies. Cuccinelli remarked that Vought’s first term felt like just “preseason” compared to what he’s ready to tackle now.

Ned Ryun, a long-time friend of Vought, stated that he has prepared for this moment extensively. He asserted that if Vought is granted full power, it could represent a substantial shift in American governance.

Humility is a common theme among those close to Vought. According to Bovard, once Vought’s term wraps up, he won’t be seeking the spotlight or pursuing a K Street career. For him, it’s about executing his plans effectively.

In essence, this is a high-stakes moment for Vought, akin to a quarterback in a critical game situation. It’s a blend of adrenaline and laser focus, as he navigates this challenging landscape.