The Shadow Operator: How Mark Paoletta's Stealthy Rise Threatens Democratic Institutions Mark Paoletta, a conservative lawyer, has been quietly shaping the Trump administration's most damaging policies.
His influence is alarming because of its convergence with the interests of Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought, his close ally.
Together, they're pushing the boundaries of presidential authority, driven by an animus against civil service independence and a zeal for executive supremacy.