U.S. President Donald Trump has said he will pardon Democratic congressman Henry Cuellar, who was charged last year with accepting around $600,000 (£478,000) in bribes.
On social media, Trump stated he would issue a full and unconditional pardon for Cuellar and his wife, Imelda Cuellar, who was also implicated in the case. The president expressed support for Cuellar by commenting, Henry, I don't know you, but you can sleep well tonight - Your nightmare is finally over!
Trump linked Cuellar's charges to his vocal opposition to open borders, suggesting that Cuellar was targeted because of his political stance against the Biden administration. Both Cuellar and his wife maintain their innocence.
Earlier this week, Cuellar confirmed his re-election bid as a Democrat despite speculation about a possible party switch to align with Republicans.
Biden's Department of Justice allege Cuellar illicitly accepted money from an Azerbaijani government-owned oil company and a Mexican bank. As a result of the alleged conspiracy, Cuellar is accused of agreeing to advocate for U.S. foreign policy that would benefit Azerbaijan, alongside measures that would favor the Mexican bank.
Charges against the couple include conspiracy, bribery, wire fraud, and money laundering.
Despite being a Democrat, Cuellar adopts conservative views on several issues, earning him the title of the last pro-life Democrat due to his moderate stance on abortion. Cuellar's daughters contend his strong views on immigration may have influenced the charges against him, a sentiment echoed by Trump on social media.
This move represents Trump's continuous exercise of clemency, with other recent pardons targeting individuals convicted of financial crimes.
