Trump denied knowing about Project 2025 during his 2024 campaign, he and his administration have recently embraced it and its author, Russell Vought. In recent months, Democrats and critics have accused Trump and his allies of hypocrisy for implementing Project 2025 policies after previously distancing themselves from the project. Separately, the plan is also criticized by some Christian groups and other faith leaders, who say its religious nationalist goals threaten the rights of many Americans. multiple reports highlighted the deep connections between the project and Trump's inner circle. More than 140 former Trump administration officials and allies were involved in writing or collaborating on the plan, including its director, Paul Dans, and lead author, Russell Vought. Embracing the plan: Following his election, Trump and his administration embraced the project's recommendations. In early October 2025, during a government shutdown, Trump met with Vought and praised him on social media, writing that Vought was "of PROJECT 2025 Fame". Vought is now the director of the Office of Management and Budget. Christian and faith-based groups have argued that Project 2025 promotes a Christian nationalist agenda that undermines religious freedom and diversity. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=TmaxaMDRysE&fbclid=IwVERTSANQouBleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHgg0HAVoxHATi1g_PQRXlA89_aiHJjxKqjxdPv1lTmAaMold6NZ1kfaL5ouS_aem_xXyMlkMaCyD4abj