President Donald Trump announced he will grant a full and unconditional pardon to Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar of Texas and his wife Imelda, who were indicted last year on charges of accepting nearly $600,000 in bribes from foreign entities, including an Azerbaijani energy company and a Mexican bank. Cuellar, a moderate Democrat first elected in 2004, faced 14 counts including bribery, wire fraud, and money laundering, though two counts were dismissed in August. The indictment alleged that Cuellar accepted bribes in exchange for official acts and laundered the payments through shell companies. Cuellar and his wife pleaded not guilty, maintaining their innocence. Trump’s pardon drew criticism and praise, with Cuellar thanking Trump for his leadership and stating the pardon provides a 'clean slate.' Cuellar’s daughters also expressed support, citing his honesty and independence. The case was under legal scrutiny, with a federal judge denying a motion to dismiss based on congressional protections, and some of Cuellar’s associates had previously pleaded guilty and cooperated with authorities. Cuellar has not yet filed for re-election, despite signals that he intends to run, amid GOP efforts to target his district. The pardon is part of Trump’s broader pattern of controversial pardons, and it has sparked debate over legal and political implications.