Indictment of U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar and Wife on Bribery Charges: Details and Reactions

U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, a prominent South Texas Democrat, and his wife Imelda have been indicted on charges of accepting nearly $600,000 in bribes from Azerbaijan and a Mexican bank. The indictment alleges that Cuellar received payments from Azerbaijan’s state-run oil and gas company through fake consulting contracts to shell companies owned by his wife. In exchange, Cuellar allegedly pushed U.S. policy in favor of Azerbaijan, including adding language to defense spending legislation to prioritize ties with the country.

Cuellar is also accused of accepting money from a Mexican bank and influencing executive branch members to work around anti-money laundering policies that threatened the bank’s interests. The indictment further alleges that Cuellar coordinated with the bank on legislation beneficial to the payday lending industry.

Cuellar has denied the allegations, stating that his actions were in the interest of the American people and that he sought legal advice from the House Ethics Committee before taking any action. Despite the indictment, Cuellar has announced his intention to run for reelection in November.

The charges against Cuellar include bribery, money laundering, working on behalf of a foreign government, and conspiracy. If convicted, he could face decades in prison. The indictment also implicates Cuellar’s family members and associates in facilitating the alleged payments.

Cuellar’s ties to Azerbaijan, including trips paid for by Azerbaijani groups and advocacy for the country’s interests in Congress, have come under scrutiny. The indictment details Cuellar’s efforts to advance Azerbaijani interests in U.S. policy, including coordinating with Azerbaijani diplomats to influence legislation and defense policy.

The indictment also accuses Cuellar of accepting bribes from a Mexican bank in exchange for advancing policies beneficial to the bank’s business interests. Cuellar allegedly used his position to help the bank navigate cross-border transactions and avoid regulations aimed at preventing money laundering.

Despite the indictment, Cuellar remains a powerful figure in Texas politics, with a long history of serving in elected office. He is known for his fundraising prowess and occasional bipartisan voting record. Cuellar’s reelection bid in November is now facing increased scrutiny and opposition from Republican challengers who have called for his resignation.