Several outlets have now reported that Trump pardoned Henry Cuellar and his wife of bribery and money laundering charges.
On Truth Social Trump posted
Sleepy Joe went after the Congressman, and even the Congressman’s wonderful wife, Imelda, simply for speaking the TRUTH.
...continuing...
Because of these facts, and others, I am hereby announcing my full and unconditional PARDON of beloved Texas Congressman Henry Cuellar, and Imelda. Henry, I don’t know you, but you can sleep well tonight — Your nightmare is finally over!
Cuellar’s daughters had written a letter to Trump asking for him to pardon their parents, that read in part that they
believe that our father's independence and honesty may have contributed to how this case began.
and then proceeded to lay it on, stating
When you and your family faced your own challenges, we understood that pain in a very human way. We prayed for you and your family — for your strength, your peace, and your faith to stay strong — because we know that behind the headlines, there are real people who hurt, who love, and who still hope for better days.
Cuellar profusely thanked Trump for the pardon. (Original Trump post included).
The question now is what’s Cuellar’s next move? My guess is that a party switch is not far off. Democratic leadership has constantly stuck by Cuellar despite his shoddy voting record and indictments, and being a generally horrible Democrat. This smells like another bribe that Cuellar has decided to accept.