Special counsel Robert Mueller’s team has conducted an interview California real estate investor Tom Barrack, a confidant and longtime friend of President Trump’s, according to a new report.
Although it remains uncertain what topics specifically were covered during the questioning, one source told the Associated Press the interview solely focused on Trump’s former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his associate, Rick Gates. Both were indicted by Mueller and Gates pleaded guilty to federal conspiracy and false-statement charges earlier this year and is complying with Mueller’s team.
Another source said though the interview addressed financial matters of the campaign, the transition, and Trump’s inauguration. Barrack oversaw Trump’s inauguration.
Barrack has known Trump since 1988, and a publicist for Barrack said in 2016 they have “solidified a lifelong friendship between themselves and their families.”
Trump has frequently railed against the Mueller’s investigation, which is looking at Russian interference in the 2016 election and possible collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. Trump has maintained that no collusion occurred and has characterized the probe as a “witch hunt.”
