**Trump Pardoned Multiple Lawmakers, Beyond Henry Cuellar**
Former President Donald Trump has granted pardons to at least a dozen current and former members of Congress, according to a new report by Axios published within the past 48 hours. The list of lawmakers includes both well-known political figures and lesser-known members, with Representative Henry Cuellar being just one name among many. This news shines a light on how former President Trump used his pardon powers in ways that raise questions over political favoritism and legal fairness.
Most of the individuals who received pardons were no longer serving in Congress at the time. Sources revealed that Trump issued clemency for several offenses, ranging from corruption and campaign finance violations to charges related to fraud. Some of these pardons happened during Trump’s final days in office and were not previously publicized.
The latest list suggests the true scope of pardons may be broader than earlier reported. Advocates for transparency are now calling on lawmakers to release full details about why each pardon was granted. Many legal experts are questioning whether these decisions weakened public trust in the rule of law. In the past, presidential pardons were typically given after a justice review process. But critics argue that Trump’s decisions were driven more by loyalty than legal merit.
Henry Cuellar’s inclusion in the list has sparked particular attention, as he was under investigation earlier this year. Cuellar has denied any wrongdoing and said the pardon was unsolicited. Still, ethics watchdogs insist that this case, along with others, highlights the need for changes to how pardons are reviewed.
The Department of Justice has not responded directly to the Axios report but announced that it is reviewing recent presidential clemency cases for “based-on-merit consistency.” Though presidential pardons are allowed by the Constitution, new discussion is growing around adding oversight or limitations to this power.
This story comes as Trump continues to campaign for the 2024 election. The news of these pardons could influence public opinion as voters weigh past actions alongside future plans.
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