Trump Rages Against Pardon Recipient Cuellar’s Loyalty
Donald Trump expressed outrage over Rep. Henry Cuellar’s decision to run for re-election as a Democrat, following the president’s recent pardon of Cuellar and his wife, Imelda, who were facing bribery charges. Despite the pardon—which Trump issued after receiving a letter from Cuellar’s daughters pleading for their parents’ release—Trump condemned Cuellar for not switching allegiance to the Republican Party, labeling him as “disloyal.”
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed Cuellar and his family were unfairly targeted by Democrats, portraying them as victims of political persecution. He emphasized that the Democrats would have imprisoned them for 15 years and accused them of continuing to pursue Cuellar despite the pardon.
Trump’s tone shifted quickly from one of compassion to fury, stating Cuellar’s decision to remain a Democrat demonstrates a betrayal. He warned that this lack of loyalty would not sit well with Texas voters or Cuellar’s family, threatening, “next time, no more Mr. Nice guy.”
In response to Trump’s comments, Cuellar reaffirmed his status as “a good old conservative Democrat,” insisting that his political beliefs remain unchanged despite the pardon.
Trump’s reaction highlights his expectation of absolute loyalty from those he supports, revealing his authoritarian tendencies in expecting individuals to align completely with his party after receiving favors.