Trump Criticizes Pardoned Democrat Cuellar for Staying with the Party

President Donald Trump recently expressed disapproval towards Representative Henry Cuellar, a Texas Democrat, for deciding to pursue re-election as a Democrat after receiving clemency. Trump argued that Cuellar should have realigned with the Republicans following the pardon.

Trump took to social media to voice that he might have anticipated Cuellar's support for the GOP's narrow majority strategy in the House during the upcoming 2026 elections, given the recent clemency relief.

Cuellar, representing Texas' 28th district as a Democrat since 2005, faced bribery charges last year with his wife, Imelda. Their daughters, Christina and Catherine, had petitioned Trump with a letter in November to pardon their parents.

Accusations were denounced by Trump as being politically motivated, allegedly orchestrated by the Justice Department under Biden's leadership. He claimed Cuellar faced internal party criticism over his immigration and border policies.

Despite the pardon, Cuellar confirmed he would continue pursuing his congressional aspirations as a Democrat. Trump publicly criticized Cuellar for not shifting allegiances.

Trump stated, "Soon after I signed the pardon, Congressman Cuellar declared his intent to run again in Texas as a Democrat. This decision was shocking, considering the Democratic faction previously wished legal consequences upon him and his family."

"No more Mister Nice Guy next time!" added Trump.

Cuellar, discussing the situation publicly, claimed the charges against him and his spouse were retaliatory, linked to his critique of Biden's border policies.

Cuellar remarked, "Upon reviewing all the facts, it is clear that the department was weaponized against me due to my stance on open borders. However, targeting my family crosses the line."

CBS News reached out to Cuellar for remarks on Trump's social media statements but didn't receive a prompt reply.

Switching party allegiance would have been advantageous for Republicans after recent congressional district remapping in Texas, a process steered by Trump’s influence. However, Cuellar's district did not undergo significant Republican reconstructions.