NBC News is reporting that the Justice Department is poised to unveil the indictment of long-serving Texas Democratic Representative, Henry Cuellar, according to sources familiar with the situation. This development stems from federal authorities raiding Cuellar’s residence and campaign headquarters in Laredo, Texas, back in January 2022.
The raid was part of an investigation into the country of Azerbaijan and a cohort of American businessmen linked to it, as confirmed by law enforcement sources at the time. Cuellar’s office had previously affirmed its willingness to cooperate with the investigation. Although in April, Cuellar’s attorney, Joshua Berman, stated to certain media outlets that federal authorities had informed him Cuellar wasn’t the primary focus of the inquiry.
Cuellar, who once served as a co-chair of the Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus, finds himself under the shadow of an impending indictment, although it remains uncertain whether it’s directly linked to the 2022 raid. The Justice Department has refrained from commenting on the matter.
In response to the unfolding situation, Cuellar’s staff have reportedly reached out to other congressional offices seeking guidance. Cuellar himself issued a statement on Friday vehemently denying any wrongdoing, asserting that both he and his wife, Imelda Cuellar, are innocent of the allegations. He emphasized seeking legal counsel from the House Ethics Committee, stating that his actions in Congress were aligned with the interests of his constituents in South Texas. Despite the looming indictment, Cuellar affirmed his intention to seek re-election.
Cuellar, a seasoned politician with a legal background, has weathered political challenges in the past, including a close primary contest against a progressive challenger in 2022. However, the indictment could potentially render him more vulnerable in the upcoming elections. His district, which includes parts of San Antonio following redistricting, is currently facing a runoff election among Republicans, with the winner slated to challenge Cuellar in November. At 66 years old, Cuellar, known for his membership in centrist Democratic groups, stands as the lone Democrat in Congress opposing abortion rights, a stance that has sparked criticism within his party.
