Representative Henry Cuellar from Texas’ 28th Congressional District is facing federal bribery charges, but despite this, many elected officials and party leaders have not called for his resignation. His potential opponents, including Republicans, have expressed belief in his innocence. However, some local Democrats are concerned about the potential consequences of his case on Democratic voter turnout in historically blue, majority-Hispanic counties. South Texas has a long history of public corruption, which has led to voter apathy and distrust in the region.
Cuellar, who has declared his innocence, is accused of accepting bribes totaling at least $598,000 over seven years from a Mexican bank and an oil company owned by Azerbaijan. Three individuals involved in the case have pleaded guilty. His indictment is only the second time a sitting member of Congress has been charged with acting as a foreign agent. Despite the allegations, many voters in his district are reserving judgment until he has had his day in court. Some Democrats believe he is being unfairly targeted, while others see it as part of a larger issue of corruption in politics.
Cuellar, who has represented the district since 1987, has been seen as a pragmatic figure with relationships on both sides of the aisle. The region has seen a rightward shift in recent years, with former strongholds turning towards the Republican Party. In the 2020 and 2022 primaries, progressive Democrat Jessica Cisneros came close to unseating Cuellar, focusing on his ties to foreign interests and wealthy donors. Despite these challenges, Cuellar was successful, leading many to believe he will retain his seat regardless of the case’s outcome.
Some Latino voter advocates see broader feelings of cynicism and disillusionment among the Hispanic electorate, with low civic engagement and voter participation. The cases against Cuellar and Senator Robert Menendez have eroded faith in Hispanic community leaders. The House Republicans’ campaign arm has called for Cuellar’s resignation, with local Republican leaders using the charges to push for new leadership. However, Democrats argue that Republican criticisms lack credibility, especially as former President Trump is facing allegations as well. In Laredo, some Democrats are considering not voting for Cuellar in November, potentially leading to low turnout in the district.
Overall, the case against Cuellar has highlighted the challenges facing the Hispanic electorate in Texas and nationwide, with potential implications for voter engagement and trust in elected officials. The region’s history of corruption and shifting political landscape add complexity to the situation, as voters grapple with the allegations against a long-time representative. The outcome of Cuellar’s case and its impact on the upcoming election could have lasting effects on political dynamics in South Texas and beyond.
