Donald Trump has publicly criticized Representative Henry Cuellar, a Democrat from Texas, for choosing to run for re-election as a Democrat rather than switching parties after Trump pardoned him and his wife in a federal bribery and conspiracy case. Trump described Cuellar's decision as a significant lack of loyalty, suggesting that he expected the pardon to strengthen the Republican Party's position in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

In response to Trump's comments, Cuellar stated in a television interview that he identifies as a conservative Democrat and is willing to collaborate with the administration to find common ground. He emphasized his identity as an American, Texan, and Democrat, in that order, and expressed the belief that prioritizing party over country is detrimental.

Trump noted on his social media platform that the charges against Cuellar were brought by the Democratic administration of President Joe Biden, implying that Cuellar's continued affiliation with the Democratic Party aligns him with what Trump termed the 'radical left.' Cuellar's daughters had previously requested a pardon for their parents, which Trump granted, framing it as a response to what he called a 'weaponized' prosecution.

Cuellar has maintained that he has strong relationships within the Democratic Party and considers himself an independent voice. A switch to the Republican Party would have been advantageous for Republicans, especially following recent redistricting efforts in Texas that aimed to bolster their congressional representation. Despite the challenges, Cuellar believes he is well-positioned for re-election in his South Texas district, which was not significantly altered by the redistricting process.

Cuellar and his wife faced federal charges for allegedly accepting payments in exchange for advancing the interests of an Azerbaijan-controlled energy company and a Mexican bank. Cuellar has consistently asserted their innocence and claimed that federal authorities attempted to entrap him in a failed sting operation. He is also under investigation by the House Ethics Committee.