A former campaign aide for President Donald Trump is reportedly finalizing a plea deal with special counsel Robert Mueller's office.
CNN was first to report Rick Gates has been negotiating a plea deal for about a month. In October, he and former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort were indicted on a slew of charges, including conspiracy against the United States, conspiracy to launder money and making false statements. Both pleaded not guilty.
Rumors that Gates might be cooperating with Mueller's investigation have been ramping up. In late January, CNN reported Gates' hired a new attorney who'd been seen visiting Mueller's office. And on Feb. 1, three lawyers representing Gates asked to withdraw from the case.
This news about a possible plea deal comes as investigators are reportedly preparing to file new charges against Gates.
If Gates does cooperate with Mueller, one White House official told CNN "there'd be no anxiety here."
Additional reporting from Newsy affiliate CNN.
