A hidden-camera video has emerged showing Russell Vought, a prominent figure within the MAGA movement and co-author of Project 2025, candidly discussing his covert efforts to prepare for a potential second term for former President Donald Trump. Vought, who previously served as the Director of the Office of Management and Budget under Trump, is seen in the video revealing extensive behind-the-scenes work aimed at creating “shadow” agencies and drafting hundreds of executive orders and regulations that could be swiftly implemented if Trump returns to office.
The video, secretly recorded by employees of a British journalism nonprofit, the Centre for Climate Reporting, sheds light on the extreme measures Vought and his team are taking to ensure that Trump’s policies can be enacted without delay. Vought describes his work as focusing on consolidating presidential power, particularly in areas such as immigration, where he plans for mass deportations, which he claims could help “save the country.”
Vought’s comments also delve into his views on the cultural direction of the United States, criticizing the Republican Party for focusing too much on “religious liberty” instead of promoting what he calls “Christian nation-ism.” He suggests that conservatives should advocate for policies that prioritize Christian immigrants and challenge the construction of mosques, pushing the boundaries of First Amendment protections.
The Centre for Climate Reporting, which used deceptive tactics such as creating fake websites and LinkedIn profiles to gain Vought’s trust, defended its approach, citing public interest in exposing Vought’s private discussions. The video is part of a broader trend of using secret recordings to uncover the true intentions of political figures, a method that, while controversial, has become more common on the fringes of both US and UK media.
Vought’s work with the Center for Renewing America and his involvement in Project 2025 reflect his deep commitment to shaping the next phase of the MAGA movement. His remarks in the video offer a rare glimpse into the strategies and ideologies driving those preparing for a potential second Trump administration, from restructuring federal agencies to enforcing culturally conservative policies.