Washington Today Weekend Edition: President Trump Pardons TX Democrat Henry Cuellar, AfghanEvac, and Electricity and Utility Prices on the Rise
Dec 6, 2025
Gabby Bierenbaum, a Washington correspondent for the Texas Tribune, dives into the surprising pardon of Texas Democrat Henry Cuellar by Trump, discussing its political fallout. Sean Van Diver, founder of AfghanEVAC, shares insights on resettling Afghan allies and the importance of a robust vetting process amid security concerns. Energy journalist Robinson Meyer explains the troubling rise in electricity prices, attributing it to increased demand and highlighting the need for grid modernization and policy reform.
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Pardon Ends High-Profile Corruption Case
- The DOJ accused Henry Cuellar of bribery, money laundering, and using shell companies to launder about $600,000.
- President Trump pardoned him, ending the DOJ case before trial and surprising House Republicans.
Pardon Shifts 2026 Electoral Dynamics
- Cuellar represents a competitive Texas seat that Trump won in 2024 and that Republicans redrew to favor them.
- The pardon undercuts a major Republican line of attack and reshapes the 2026 race dynamics in Laredo.
Call That Sparked AfghanEvac
- Sean VanDiver recounts getting a desperate call from a friend trapped during the fall of Kabul asking to get his family to San Diego.
- That plea helped spark AfghanEvac's volunteer-led evacuation and resettlement efforts.