Trump pardons Texas Democrat Rep. Henry Cuellar accused of bribery

Washington President Donald Trump declared on Wednesday that he is issuing a pardon to Texas Democratic Representative Henry Cuellar, who was charged last year with multiple federal bribery offenses. The pardon also extends to Cuellar's wife, Imelda.

Trump shared the announcement on Truth Social, claiming that the charges were politically motivated and stemmed from the Justice Department under President Joe Biden. He wrote, "Henry, I don't know you, but you can sleep well tonight your nightmare is finally over!" suggesting that Cuellar's criticism of Bidens immigration policies was a factor in his prosecution.

In his post, Trump included a letter from Cuellars daughters, Christina and Catherine, who requested clemency for their parents. The daughters described their father as independent and honest, suggesting these traits may have contributed to the legal action against him. They praised Cuellar for speaking out, particularly on issues affecting South Texas and border security.

The original federal indictment accused the Cuellars of accepting over $598,000 in bribes from an Azerbaijani government-owned oil and gas company and a Mexican bank. The funds were allegedly funneled through fake consulting agreements and shell companies controlled by Imelda Cuellar, who reportedly performed little or no actual work.

Additionally, the Justice Department charged Cuellar with acting as an unregistered foreign agent for Azerbaijan. He faced 14 counts, including conspiracy, bribery, and money laundering. Both Cuellar and his wife pleaded not guilty. During the case, Cuellar stepped down from his role as the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee.

Despite the ongoing legal challenges, Cuellar was reelected last year in Texas 28th Congressional District, defeating his Republican rival by over 13,000 votes.

Author: Logan Reeves