U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar Denies Resignation Amid Federal Charges
U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar Faces Federal Charges, Vows to Stay in Office
WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar is standing firm in the face of federal charges accusing him of taking nearly $600,000 in bribes, insisting he has no intention of stepping down despite mounting pressure.
Cuellar, a Democrat from Laredo, has been indicted on charges of bribery, illegal foreign influence, and money laundering. Despite guilty pleas from three individuals connected to the case, Cuellar maintains his innocence and vows to continue his work in Congress.
The allegations against Cuellar include accepting bribes to advance the interests of Azerbaijan and a bank in Mexico. The most serious charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
While some Democrats have called for Cuellar’s resignation, others, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have expressed support for his right to a fair trial. Republicans, too, have largely refrained from attacking Cuellar, citing his record of bipartisan cooperation on key issues.
Cuellar, who is seeking an 11th term in Congress, faces a tough reelection battle in November. Two Republicans are competing in a runoff to challenge him, but it remains to be seen how much support they will receive in light of the indictment.
As the legal process unfolds, Cuellar remains defiant, declaring, “We’re not afraid of the truth.” Despite the cloud of controversy hanging over him, he shows no signs of backing down, setting the stage for a high-stakes political showdown in the months ahead.
