Democratic Congressman from Texas Faces Multiple Federal Charges
The House Ethics Committee announced on Wednesday that it is initiating an investigation into Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), who has been indicted on federal charges, including bribery, conspiracy, and money laundering.
The committee issued a statement revealing that it had unanimously decided to establish a subcommittee dedicated to investigating Cuellar. This decision follows the recent federal indictment that accuses Cuellar and his wife, Imelda, of accepting $598,000 in bribes from foreign entities, including a Mexican bank and an oil and gas company controlled by Azerbaijan.
The newly formed subcommittee will explore allegations that Cuellar "solicited or accepted bribes, gratuities, or improper gifts; acted as a foreign agent; violated federal money laundering laws; misused his official position for private gain; and/or made false statements or omissions on public disclosure statements filed with the House."
Prior to the unsealing of the charges, Cuellar had denied any misconduct, asserting that he had “proactively sought legal advice” from the Ethics Committee.
In a statement on Wednesday, Cuellar reiterated his innocence: “I respect the work of the House Ethics Committee. As I said on May 3rd, I am innocent of these allegations, and everything I have done in Congress has been to serve the people of South Texas.”
The Ethics Committee's statement referenced House rules mandating the establishment of an investigative subcommittee or an explanation for the decision not to do so within 30 days of a member's indictment or similar charges.
Chairman Michael Guest (R-Miss.) and Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.) will serve as the chair and ranking member of the new subcommittee.
The federal indictment significantly heightens the vulnerability of Cuellar's seat in the upcoming November elections. Cuellar, who easily defeated Republican Cassy Garcia two years ago, now faces a challenge from retired Navy officer Jay Furman, who secured a win in the Republican primary runoff on Tuesday.
This case follows a similar recent instance involving Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and his wife, Nadine Menendez, who were charged with 18 counts related to bribery and corruption. The Menendezes have pleaded not guilty, and Bob Menendez is currently on trial.
