Trump supports Cuellar's pardon, disregarding worries about Democrat's reelection

President Trump defended his recent decision to grant a pardon to Representative Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), dismissing concerns that it could influence the congressmans chances in next years midterm elections. Speaking with The Hill during a Wednesday Oval Office event, Trump emphasized that the pardon was about fairness, not political advantage.

It wasnt about politics, Trump said. Hes a respected individual who faced unfair treatment for expressing his views on border security. He was correct in saying open borders are problematic.

Trump recounted his anticipation of legal consequences for Cuellar, saying, When he spoke out, I thought, Hell likely face indictment, and thats exactly what occurred. He was prosecuted for telling the truth.

The president announced on Truth Social earlier that day that both Cuellar and his wife, Imelda, would receive pardons. Last year, the couple faced charges related to allegedly accepting nearly $600,000 in bribes and laundering the money. Trump noted the unusual nature of the indictment of a spouse, adding a remark about typical prosecutorial practices in such cases.

Cuellar, a centrist Democrat representing Texass competitive 28th Congressional District along the Mexico border, has previously been targeted by House Republicans for the 2026 election and criticized over his indictment. Despite this, the congressman confirmed at the Capitol on Wednesday that he intends to seek reelection as a Democrat.

Cuellar also expressed gratitude to Trump on the social platform X, saying the pardon allowed his family to move forward. I want to thank President Trump for reviewing the facts and providing leadership. This decision helps us focus on the future for South Texas, he stated.

Author: Zoe Harrison