In a significant development, it has been revealed that Dan Scavino, a former adviser to Donald Trump, has cooperated with federal authorities, potentially exacerbating legal troubles for the former president. Sources cited by ABC News claim that Scavino disclosed to Special Counsel Jack Smith that Trump showed little interest in stopping the violence at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

Confirmation of Scavino's cooperation comes amidst the ongoing House Select Committee probe into the events of January 6. Congressman Adam Kinzinger, a member of the committee, expressed his intent to speak with Scavino about his knowledge of the incursion. While the committee was unable to secure an interview with Scavino, a judge dismissed his claim of executive privilege, clearing the way for him to speak with Special Counsel Jack Smith.

Special Counsel Smith has brought two criminal indictments against Trump, one of which pertains to his alleged attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and his potential involvement in the Capitol riots. Trump has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Kinzinger emphasized the significance of Scavino's cooperation, stating that it reaffirms what was already suspected. "For 187 minutes, for over three hours, Donald Trump sat there watching his insurrection in action and did not act," Kinzinger said. He criticized Trump's alleged inaction, stating that a simple tweet or activation of the National Guard could have brought the situation under control.

ABC News reported that Scavino, along with others, had attempted to convince Trump to send out a tweet to calm the crowd on January 6. At 2:38 p.m., 26 minutes after the first rioters had breached the Capitol, Trump posted a tweet urging support for law enforcement and calling for peacefulness. This came after a prior tweet at 2:24 p.m., in which Trump accused then-Vice President Mike Pence of lacking courage for not protecting the country.

Kinzinger contended that Trump's statements were reactive rather than proactive, suggesting that they only came after it became apparent that law enforcement was stepping in to regain control of the Capitol. These claims further reinforce the narrative that Trump was slow to respond to the escalating situation.

Trump now faces charges including conspiracy to defraud the United States, obstruction of an official proceeding, and conspiracy against rights. The former president has consistently denied all charges, asserting that they are politically motivated.

As Scavino's cooperation with federal authorities emerges, it poses a significant challenge to Trump's defense. With Scavino's account potentially corroborating other evidence, the legal and political ramifications for the former president loom large.