UPDATE: Tensions are escalating as President Donald Trump publicly criticizes Rep. Henry Cuellar, the Texas Democrat he pardoned earlier this month. Cuellar has announced his intention to run for reelection as a Democrat, rejecting Trump’s expectation of a party switch, a move that has sparked fierce backlash from the former president.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his discontent, stating, “Such a lack of LOYALTY,” while accusing Cuellar of remaining aligned with “the same RADICAL LEFT” that pursued legal action against him and his wife. Trump hinted that he had hoped the pardon would strengthen Republican support in the upcoming 2026 midterms, emphasizing, “Oh’ well, next time, no more Mr. Nice guy!”
Cuellar responded shortly after, dismissing Trump’s remarks and reaffirming his identity as a conservative Democrat. “I am a conservative Democrat willing to work with the administration ‘to see where we can find common ground,’” he stated. Cuellar emphasized his commitment to the country, saying, “I prayed for the president and the presidency… because if the president succeeds, the country succeeds.”
Cuellar’s decision to stay with the Democratic Party comes despite the expectations following Texas’ GOP-led legislature’s redrawing of congressional maps, a move Trump supported to bolster Republican chances nationwide. Notably, Cuellar’s district remained largely unchanged, reinforcing his confidence in his reelection bid.
The backdrop to this political drama includes Cuellar facing accusations from federal prosecutors of accepting bribes linked to an Azerbaijan-based energy firm and a Mexican bank. He has denied these allegations, claiming that authorities attempted a failed sting operation. Despite these legal troubles, Cuellar is also under investigation by the House Ethics Committee as he prepares for another election cycle.
Trump’s pardon was framed as a response to what he called a “weaponized” prosecution, aligning Cuellar with Trump’s immigration policies, which Cuellar has vocally opposed. Cuellar maintains strong relationships within the Democratic Caucus, asserting, “I think the general Democrat Caucus and I, we get along. But they know that I’m an independent voice.”
As the political landscape shifts, all eyes are on Cuellar as he seeks to navigate these turbulent waters. His choice to remain a Democrat could have significant implications not only for his political future but also for the broader dynamics of the party heading into the midterms.
Stay tuned for further developments on this unfolding story as Cuellar prepares for his campaign while balancing the weight of Trump’s criticism and ongoing investigations.
