Trump regrets one major pardon.
President Donald Trump is expressing deep frustration over one of his own pardon decisions, saying he never expected Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) to seek another term in Congress after receiving presidential clemency.
In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump criticized the longtime Texas Democrat, arguing that Cuellar should have stepped away from public office instead of launching another reelection campaign. Trump also said he was surprised Cuellar chose to remain a Democrat after receiving the pardon.
“I never assumed he would be running for office again, and certainly not as a Democrat,” Trump wrote.
Why Trump Pardoned Henry Cuellar
Trump explained that he granted pardons to Henry Cuellar and his wife, Imelda Cuellar, after carefully reviewing their case and hearing emotional appeals from their family.
The couple had faced federal allegations involving nearly $600,000 in alleged bribery payments and money laundering. If convicted, they could have faced lengthy prison sentences.
According to Trump, the deciding factor was a series of heartfelt letters written by the couple’s daughters, Christina and Catherine Cuellar. He described the letters as deeply moving and said they convinced him that mercy was appropriate.
Trump even shared one of the letters publicly, noting that the daughters believed their father’s independent political positions may have contributed to the federal investigation.
Trump Blames Biden Administration
Trump also argued that the Biden administration unfairly targeted Cuellar because he occasionally broke with Democratic leaders on immigration and border security.
While acknowledging that Cuellar was never one of the strongest voices on border enforcement, Trump said the Texas congressman supported tougher immigration policies more often than many members of his party.
Trump claimed those differences made Cuellar a political target.
He argued that federal investigators pursued the case because the Biden administration viewed Cuellar as out of step with the Democratic Party on key border issues.
Trump Now Backs Republican Challenger
Despite previously granting Cuellar a pardon, Trump made it clear he now wants voters to elect someone else.
The president has endorsed Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina, the Republican nominee challenging Cuellar in Texas’ 28th Congressional District.
Trump praised Tijerina as the stronger conservative candidate, highlighting his positions on:
- Border security
- Lower taxes
- Stronger military funding
- America First policies
Trump argued that Tijerina would better support his agenda in Congress and provide stronger leadership on issues important to conservative voters.
A Dramatic Political Reversal
Cuellar has represented South Texas in Congress since 2005 and secured the Democratic nomination earlier this year, setting up a closely watched general election.
Trump’s latest comments mark a dramatic reversal in their relationship. After once extending one of the most significant acts of presidential clemency available, Trump now says he regrets expecting Cuellar to leave politics.
The public disagreement underscores how loyalty remains a major factor in Trump’s political endorsements and highlights the importance he places on supporting candidates who fully embrace his America First agenda.
With control of Congress once again at stake, the race for Texas’ 28th Congressional District is expected to draw national attention as Republicans look to flip another seat and strengthen support for President Trump’s legislative priorities.