President Donald Trump has caused speculation as the midterm elections approach by hinting at possible “big surprises” involving Russ Vought, the White House budget chief and key figure behind Project 2025. Trump did not specify details, but he praised Vought during an event in Maryland, saying, “We have some big surprises coming up in a few weeks, right Russ? He’s gonna be one of the important people in the history of our country.”
This ambiguous statement has led to various interpretations, with some critics expressing concern about its possible implications for the election. Jessica Tarlov, a political strategist for the Democratic Party and Fox News host, expressed her apprehension on X: “Between this and his ‘midterm surprise,’ the time to prepare for him to try to steal an election is now.” Joyce Vance, a lawyer and former U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, added, “Election interference in the offing.”
Conversations have also focused on Trump’s selection of a partner. Former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci noted Trump’s previous efforts to distance himself from the conservative policy blueprint and its contributors during the 2024 campaign. Scaramucci remarked, “Of course he said in July 2024 he had nothing to do with Project 2025 and he didn’t know Russ.”
Neither Trump nor the White House have confirmed any connection of the remark to the election. Attention has also focused on Vought’s responsibilities for overseeing federal spending, grants, workforce policy, and broader governmental restructuring efforts. Matt Klink, a Republican strategist and president of Klink Campaigns, had previously informed Newsweek that Trump’s mention of a “midterm surprise” aimed to energize voters rather than refer to a particular event.
Trump’s remarks about a ‘Midterm Surprise’ are spin, and the spin is the point,” Klink said. “Trump tied the line to his Nebraska rally crowds and enthusiasm. That’s a turnout message, not a classified briefing.”
Newsweek reached out to the White House, OMB, and America First Policy Institute for comment. Updates will follow as this story develops.
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