The ‘Grim Reaper’ of the Government Shutdown
October 6, 2025
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36:55Now PlayingThe ‘Grim Reaper’ of the Government Shutdown
YouTube Description
as posted by the channelDuring the continuing government shutdown, President Trump has posted memes depicting Russel T. Vought, the White House budget director, as the grim reaper.
Coral Davenport, a Washington correspondent for The Times, explains how Mr. Vought, a once obscure official, has become one of the most influential figures in Washington.
GuestCoral Davenport () , a Washington correspondent for The New York Times, focusing on the Trump administration’s dismantling of federal rules.
Background reading:
• Mr. Vought has exerted his influence () over nearly every corner of President Trump’s Washington with his command of the levers of the federal budget.
• Both parties are resigned to deadlock () as the government shutdown takes hold.
Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
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