President Donald Trump issued a full and unconditional pardon Wednesday to Texas Democratic Representative Henry Cuellar and his wife, wiping away a federal bribery and conspiracy case and reigniting debate over his expansive use of presidential clemency powers.

Why Trump Says the Justice System Targeted Cuellar

In a Truth Social announcement, Trump alleged without providing evidence that federal prosecutors went after the South Texas congressman because he "bravely spoke out against Open Borders" and "for speaking the TRUTH." The president, who said he doesn't personally know Cuellar, wrote: "Henry, I don't know you, but you can sleep well tonight. Your nightmare is finally over!"

According to a May 2024 Reuters report, federal authorities had charged Cuellar and his wife Imelda with accepting nearly $600,000 in bribes spanning 2014 to 2021. The money allegedly came from an Azerbaijan-controlled energy company and a Mexican bank, with prosecutors claiming the couple advanced these entities' interests in Congress in exchange. The indictment included 14 counts covering conspiracy, bribery, money laundering, and acting as agents of foreign principals.

Cuellar Maintains Innocence, Says He's Not Switching Sides

Speaking to reporters outside his office following the pardon, Cuellar once again proclaimed his innocence and expressed gratitude, according to the Associated Press. "I think the facts have been clear about this, but I would also say I want to thank God for standing during this very difficult time with my family and I," the congressman said. "Now we can get back to work. Nothing has changed. We will continue working hard."

When asked directly whether he would switch to the Republican Party, Cuellar was unequivocal: "No, like I said, nothing has changed."

A Democrat Who Often Breaks With His Party

Cuellar, who has represented his border district in Congress for over two decades, has built a reputation as a moderate willing to buck Democratic Party positions on immigration and abortion. He's clashed with both the Biden and Trump administrations over border enforcement policies and cross-border trade issues, though he has supported some legalization efforts.

This pardon adds to Trump's growing list of high-profile clemency actions. Earlier this year, he granted clemency to more than 1,500 individuals charged in connection with the January 6 Capitol attack. On the same day as the Cuellar pardon, Trump also pardoned sports executive Timothy Leiweke, continuing his pattern of intervention in politically charged cases.