Trump and Vought Plan Federal Agency Cuts Amid Government Shutdown

President Donald Trump announced plans to meet with Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought to discuss potential cuts to federal agencies amid the ongoing government shutdown. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, "I have a meeting today with Russ Vought, he of PROJECT 2025 Fame, to determine which of the many Democrat Agencies, most of which are a political SCAM, he recommends to be cut, and whether or not those cuts will be temporary or permanent."

The government shutdown began after Congress failed to pass a funding bill before the fiscal year ended on September 30. The impasse centers on disagreements over extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, with Democrats insisting on their inclusion in any short-term funding measure. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that the shutdown could negatively impact economic growth, stating, "This isn't the way to have a discussion, shutting down the government and lowering the GDP."

Vought, a key author of Project 2025—a conservative blueprint for government reform—has been instrumental in the administration's approach to federal spending. His previous actions include withholding funds approved by Congress, leading to concerns about the administration's adherence to the Impoundment Control Act.

The administration's stance has drawn criticism from lawmakers. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Connecticut) expressed concern over potential future rescissions, stating, "They are going to stab us in the back again." As the shutdown continues, the administration's plans to cut federal agencies remain a contentious issue in ongoing budget negotiations.