Donald Trump pardoned Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar, accused of bribery to protect the interests of some banks, claiming that the accusations are politically motivated.

The American president Donald Trump announced the pardon of Texas Democratic congressman Henry Cuellar, accused of accepting approximately $600,000 in bribes to promote the interests of a Mexican bank and an Azerbaijani company between 2014 and 2021. Trump claimed that the accusations are part of a political campaign orchestrated by the Biden administration against its opponents. Cuellar, who has been elected to the House of Representatives for over 20 years, was accused of abuse of office, and his trial was set to begin in April 2026.

After the pardon, Cuellar stated that it offers him a new beginning and that he will continue to work for his community. Additionally, the Democratic leader in the House, Hakeem Jeffries, praised Cuellar's contributions, emphasizing that the accusations against him were weak. Cuellar is known to be one of the most conservative Democrats, holding different positions from his party on issues such as immigration and firearms.