Trump Criticizes Democratic Congressman He Pardoned After Re-Election Filing

President Donald Trump was angry when pardoned Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar announced he will run as a Democrat. Cuellar and Imelda were pardoned for federal bribery and conspiracy by the Biden administration last week.

Trump called Cuellar a “lack of loyalty” on Truth Social, saying he disappointed Texas and his family. Pardoning Cuellar, Trump cited his daughters’ passionate letter. He granted Henry and Imelda Cuellar a “full and complete pardon” after the family petitioned.

Former president further blasted Cuellar for supporting the Democratic Party, calling it “same Radical Left” that charged him. Cuellar allegedly took nearly $600,000 to promote an Azerbaijani energy company and a Mexican bank. His federal indictment came in May 2024.

Cuellar is noted for his bipartisanship in Congress despite these issues. He noted in an interview that he works across party lines and votes with Republicans on important issues, justifying his Democrat designation. He prioritized constituents over politics, emphasizing his American and Texan citizenship.

With the pardon, Trump praised Cuellar’s border security, something he had previously criticized. Some claim the president’s disapproval shows personal allegiance for clemency. Some political watchers think Trump pardons for reciprocity.

Cuellar emphasizes presidential pardons, political fealty, and congressional bipartisanship. The pardon dropped significant federal charges but raised questions about executive judgments and political strategy vs. legal clemency.