Andy Kroll

Andy Kroll, an investigative reporter for ProPublica, dives into the intriguing world of Russell Vought, former Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Kroll paints Vought as a 'shadow president' seeking to undermine federal independence. They discuss Vought's strategy of using shutdowns as leverage, his radical constitutionalist views, and how he blends culture wars with budget cuts. Kroll also highlights the long-term implications for public service and predicts looming legal battles over executive power.

Investigative reporter Andy Kroll, who covers justice and the rule of law at ProPublica, delves into the enigmatic Russell Vought, a powerful figure within the White House. Kroll explains how Vought’s unconventional strategies at the Office of Management and Budget often align with MAGA priorities and discusses his controversial funding freezes, including implications surrounding impeachment. He also traces Vought’s journey from a Hill aide to an influential activist, revealing how Vought's rhetoric aims to instill fear in federal employees and potentially shape future administrations.

Andy Kroll, an investigative reporter for ProPublica and coauthor of 'The Shadow President', dives into the significant yet overlooked influence of Russell Vought in shaping Trump’s agenda. Kroll reveals Vought's views on dismantling the ‘deep state’ and how Christian nationalism infuses his policies. He discusses Vought's powerful role as the 'shadow president', his past experiments with funding impoundment, and plans for Project 2025. The conversation sheds light on Vought's loyalty to Trump and the long-term implications of his governance philosophy.