Rep. Cuellar, Tijerina respond to Trump’s Truth Social endorsement post

LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) - Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar and Republican challenger Tano Tijerina responded to President Donald Trump’s Truth Social post endorsing Tijerina for Texas’ 28th Congressional District.

Cuellar thanked Trump for his pardon while emphasizing his continued focus on congressional duties.

“As mentioned previously, my family and I thank President Trump for his pardon,” Cuellar said. “As a senior and experienced member of Congress, I remain focused on my responsibilities and on fighting for the people I represent.”

The congressman said his priorities include lowering costs for families, bringing billions of dollars back to the district, strengthening border security, expanding American energy production and supporting law enforcement.

“I look forward to a resounding victory in November,” Cuellar said.

Tijerina expressed appreciation for Trump’s endorsement in the congressional race.

“Honored to have the support of President Donald J. Trump!” Tijerina said. “Together, we are going to take South Texas back and put America first.”

Trump announced his endorsement of Tijerina while criticizing Cuellar’s decision to seek reelection as a Democrat after receiving the presidential pardon. Trump pardoned Cuellar and his wife last month on federal bribery charges.

The president called Cuellar’s decision to run against him and the Republican Party “a great act of disloyalty” and said Cuellar “should not be allowed to serve in Congress again.”

Cuellar and his wife were indicted in May 2024 on charges related to allegedly accepting bribes from foreign entities.

Trump announced the pardon in December 2025, claiming the prosecution was retaliation for Cuellar’s opposition to the Biden administration’s border policies.

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