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In a recent post on Truth Social, former President Donald Trump criticized U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, labeling him as “disloyal” and “ungrateful” for remaining a Democrat after Trump’s intervention in his legal troubles. Cuellar, a congressman representing South Texas, had received a presidential pardon for charges stemming from allegations of bribery and conspiracy, but Trump expressed disappointment when Cuellar opted to run for reelection as a Democrat instead of switching to the Republican Party.
Trump’s comments included a reflection on the political dynamics surrounding Cuellar, whom he had previously pardoned. He anticipated that Cuellar would align with the Republican Party, especially given the circumstances of his legal issues. “I thought there would be a good chance that Cuellar, who was persecuted by Democrats because they didn’t like him, would have routinely gone over to the Republican Party — The people that saved him from years in prison,” Trump stated.
In response, Cuellar reiterated his commitment to his constituents in South Texas, emphasizing priorities such as addressing ICE overreach and safeguarding Medicare and Social Security. Cuellar expressed gratitude for the resolution of his legal case and maintained that his focus would remain on serving the community. “My full attention will continue to be on serving our friends and neighbors in South Texas,” he stated.
Cuellar is currently in a challenging race for Texas’ 28th congressional district, a seat that has become increasingly competitive following recent redistricting. This district, which Trump won by over 10 points in the 2024 election, also saw Democratic Senate candidate Beto O’Rourke secure a victory in 2018, highlighting the fluctuating political landscape of the area.
Trump’s post also included a mention of Cuellar’s opponent, Tano Tijerina, a Webb County judge who recently switched parties to run as a Republican. The former president’s comments primarily served as a critique of Cuellar, suggesting that he should be incarcerated for his alleged crimes. Cuellar and his wife, Imelda, were indicted on multiple charges, including bribery and money laundering, in connection with accusations of accepting substantial bribes from foreign and domestic entities.
The indictment alleges that Cuellar used his congressional position to benefit these entities in exchange for financial rewards. Prior to Trump’s second term, he had accused the Biden administration of unfairly targeting Cuellar for his stance on border enforcement.
In a May 2024 post, Trump asserted that Cuellar was indicted due to his refusal to conform to what he described as Biden’s “Open Border game.” After being pardoned by Trump, Cuellar’s daughters even reached out to the president requesting clemency for their parents, which Trump granted shortly thereafter.
In his latest remarks, Trump expressed regret that Cuellar’s daughters did not persuade him to switch to the Republican Party. “I only wish Henry Cuellar’s daughters, who begged for his survival, would have used the same level of charm to convince their mother and father to do the right thing,” Trump remarked.
The political landscape in Texas continues to evolve, with figures like Cuellar at the center of contentious debates around party loyalty, legal accountability, and the shifting allegiances of politicians. As the 2024 elections approach, the outcomes of such races will undoubtedly have implications for both state and national politics.
Reporting in the Rio Grande Valley is supported in part by the Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.
