Laredo, TX – Democratic U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar, who serves Texas’s 28th congressional district, has been indicted on charges of bribery, money laundering, and foreign influence following a January 2022 raid on his home and campaign office in Laredo. This marks a major turning point in an ongoing federal investigation.
The U.S. Department of Justice alleges that Cuellar and his wife, Imelda, received around $600,000 in bribes from two foreign entities—a Mexican bank and an oil and gas company owned by the government of Azerbaijan.
If convicted, Cuellar could face significant penalties, including potential decades-long prison sentences. Despite the legal challenges, Cuellar intends to maintain his bid for re-election.
Cuellar, who has served in Congress since 2005, is known for his involvement in the powerful House Appropriations Committee, where he is the Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee. His educational journey from Laredo Community College to prestigious institutions like Georgetown University reflects his commitment to hard work and education. In addition, he has a Juris Doctor and Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin.
Before his time in Congress, Cuellar held roles such as Texas Secretary of State and State Representative. He has also practiced law and taught International Commercial Law at Texas A&M International University. Cuellar’s extensive experience in public service and education has made him a prominent figure in his community.
Cuellar’s legal team has not yet made a formal statement regarding the charges, but his supporters cite his long-standing dedication to his district and his focus on bipartisan cooperation. As the case progresses, the November election looms, adding pressure on Cuellar’s political future.
Cuellar and his wife reside in Laredo, Texas, with their two daughters. The outcome of the investigation and the approaching election are certain to have a significant impact on the political landscape in Texas’s 28th district.
The leader of the House Democratic Caucus supported Rep. Henry Cuellar’s (D-Texas) right to continue serving in Congress while his criminal trial proceeds, emphasizing that the Texas Democrat, who was recently charged with bribery and foreign influence, is presumed innocent like any other American.
“He has the right to defend himself and to be considered innocent until proven guilty,” Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.) told reporters at the Capitol.
“Just as with any American, he is entitled to that presumption. That seems to be the prevailing view among House Democrats at this time.”
Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.) has been more critical of other lawmakers facing legal troubles in recent months. He backed the expulsion of former Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) in December and, in September, called for Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) to resign. Both Santos and Menendez face federal charges related to financial corruption.
Aguilar defended the different treatment of Rep. Henry Cuellar’s (D-Texas) case, arguing that Cuellar’s situation is “very different” from those of Santos and Menendez. He portrayed Cuellar as a serious legislator with an extensive history of public service, unlike Santos, whose campaign was marked by significant fabrications.
“Cuellar has deep relationships on both sides of the aisle. We know him to be a serious public official and public servant,” Aguilar said. “This sets Cuellar apart from past issues and the frivolousness associated with George Santos. This is why many of us are approaching this differently,” he added.
“The substance of the allegations and the individuals involved are vastly different.”
When questioned about the contrast with Menendez’s indictment, Aguilar pointed to the Justice Department’s public release of evidence, including photos of cash and gold bars allegedly in the New Jersey senator’s possession.
“I think these are very different cases,” Aguilar said. “The evidence, including the photographs and other details, distinguishes Menendez’s situation.” Still, he emphasized that both lawmakers are entitled to the presumption of innocence.
Aguilar’s remarks align with those of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), who described Cuellar as “a valued member” of the party in a brief statement following Cuellar’s indictment.
