Trump Flips On Democrat He Saved
Donald Trump made waves in Texas politics this week by endorsing Republican candidate Tano Tijerina, setting up a high-profile challenge to longtime Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar.
The endorsement came roughly one month after Trump issued a presidential pardon to Cuellar and his wife, who had been facing federal charges tied to alleged financial misconduct. While the move surprised many political observers, it was Cuellar’s decision to remain a Democrat that ultimately drew Trump’s public criticism.
Trump Questions Loyalty After Pardon
Cuellar publicly thanked Trump for the pardon but later announced he would seek reelection as a Democrat—an action Trump described as a serious lapse in political judgment.
In a lengthy Truth Social post, Trump questioned why Cuellar would continue aligning himself with Democratic leadership despite past policy differences. Trump argued that remaining within the Democratic Party conflicted with the values Cuellar had previously claimed to support.
Trump also acknowledged that Cuellar may have been subjected to political targeting, while suggesting that the congressman made avoidable mistakes along the way.
Full Endorsement for Tano Tijerina
In contrast, Trump praised Tijerina as a candidate with stronger conservative credentials and a clearer vision for the district.
Trump formally issued his “Complete and Total Endorsement”, encouraging voters to support Tijerina in Texas’ 28th Congressional District, a seat that has long been considered competitive but traditionally leans Democratic.
The endorsement highlights Trump’s continued influence in shaping Republican primaries and general election contests, particularly when issues of party loyalty and ideological consistency are at stake.
Race Rated Lean Democratic—for Now
According to the Cook Political Report, the district is currently rated “Lean Democratic.” However, analysts note that strong national involvement—especially from Trump—can significantly alter turnout dynamics, particularly among older and reliable voters.
Additional Endorsements Signal Broader Strategy
Trump also announced several other House endorsements, backing Amanda McKinney in Washington’s 4th Congressional District and issuing a rare dual endorsement for Gina Swoboda and former NFL player Jay Feely in Arizona’s 1st Congressional District.
Together, the endorsements reflect Trump’s broader strategy of supporting candidates he views as aligned with Republican priorities ahead of the next election cycle.
Bottom Line
Trump’s endorsement of Tijerina sends a clear message to voters and candidates alike: party loyalty and policy alignment still matter, even after personal or political disputes are resolved.
As the race unfolds, Texas’ 28th District is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched congressional contests in the country.
