In a dramatic political twist, former US President Donald Trump issued a full pardon to Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar and his wife, only to publicly criticise the Texas lawmaker days later for a perceived "lack of loyalty" after Cuellar confirmed he would not switch parties.
The Pardon and the Immediate Aftermath
On Wednesday, Donald Trump used his presidential pardon power to absolve Representative Henry Cuellar and his wife of federal bribery and conspiracy charges. The couple had been accused of accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars from entities in Azerbaijan and a Mexican bank, allegedly in exchange for political influence. The pardon cleared their legal records entirely.
Shortly after receiving the pardon, Cuellar, a conservative Democrat representing a south Texas district, formally filed paperwork to seek re-election to the US House of Representatives. He explicitly stated he intended to run again as a member of the Democratic Party, dismissing any speculation of a party switch.
Trump's Public Rebuke on Social Media
The former president's reaction was swift and public. Taking to his Truth Social platform on Sunday, Trump expressed his displeasure. He suggested Cuellar had been targeted by Democrats for criticising the party's stance on immigration, but then focused his ire on the congressman's decision to remain a Democrat.
"I never spoke to the Congressman, his wife, or his daughters, but felt very good about fighting for a family that was tormented by very sick and deranged people – They were treated sooo BADLY!" Trump wrote. He concluded the post with a pointed remark: "Such a lack of LOYALTY, something that Texas Voters, and Henry's daughters, will not like. Oh' well, next time, no more Mr. Nice guy!"
This public statement underscores a recurring theme in Trump's political dealings: an expectation of loyalty from those who benefit from his actions, even when they are from the opposing party.
The Political Landscape in Texas
The incident unfolds against a backdrop of significant political manoeuvring in Texas. Cuellar's district was one of several redrawn by state Republicans in early August to be more favourable to GOP candidates. Despite this, Cuellar is considered a strong incumbent with a realistic chance of holding his seat in the 2026 midterm elections.
In a major boost for Republican efforts, the US Supreme Court ruled on Thursday to allow Texas's new congressional map to take effect. This decision is seen as crucial for Republicans aiming to maintain their narrow majority in the House of Representatives following the upcoming midterms.
Henry Cuellar has long been known as one of the most conservative Democrats in the House, often breaking with his party on key issues. His political survival in a increasingly competitive district, now compounded by this very public exchange with Donald Trump, will be a closely watched story in American politics.
