Cuellar, age 69, is a Laredo resident who is seeking his 11th term representing a South Texas district that includes the southeastern part of Bexar County. He sits on the House Appropriations Committee.
Hear from the candidate
Please tell voters about yourself.
I’m the oldest of eight children to migrant farm workers in Laredo, TX. I currently serve in Congress as the only Texas Democrat on the powerful U.S. House Appropriations Committee. Before my time in Congress, I served as Texas Secretary of State and as a Texas State Representative. My career has spanned roles as an educator, attorney, and small business owner. I hold an associate degree from Laredo Community College, a B.S. in Foreign Service from Georgetown University, a J.D. from UT Austin, an MBA from Texas A&M International University, and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from UT Austin. I live in Laredo with my family and enjoy reading, walking, and watching movies in my free time.
What three issues do you consider to be most pressing for your district and how would you address them?
The most pressing issues in our district are border security, health care, education and transportation infrastructure. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee (Subcommittees on Homeland Security, Defense, and Military Construction/VA) I’ve fought to secure federal funding for programs critical to our district’s success. For example, I’ve worked to secure funds for new health clinics, mental health, housing, education and veterans. As a senior member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee, I’ve consistently and successfully championed funding for border security.
Moreover, I helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, securing millions for key transportation projects. Looking forward, I will continue to protect Social Security and Medicare benefits, which are vital for our district. By continuing to prioritize the district’s needs through federal funding and thoughtful policy, I will ensure that we address these pressing issues while fostering economic growth and opportunity.
How would you approach Congress’ ongoing gridlock on numerous issues including spending bills?
Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve worked across the aisle to build consensus and deliver results. It’s why I’ve been consistently ranked as one of the most bipartisan members in Congress. I believe in building relationships and focusing on the common ground we share, rather than the partisanship that has increasingly divided Washington.
The gridlock we see today stems from prioritizing speeches over solutions. I believe we can be much more effective if we set aside the rhetoric and focus on legislation that benefits the American people. I’ve always chosen to collaborate with members of both parties to tackle difficult issues, and I’ll continue to work hard to find bipartisan solutions for the good of the district and the country.
Describe your approach to being an effective lawmaker in order to best serve the needs of voters in your district?
To be an effective lawmaker, I believe in three key principles: Building relationships, crafting strong policy and securing bipartisan support. My approach has always been to evaluate an idea on its merits, regardless of party and collaborate with both sides to achieve results. This mindset has allowed me to work effectively with members of the House and Senate on initiatives that benefit my district.
As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I’ve secured crucial funding for projects for each of my counties in the district and held agencies accountable for addressing local concerns. My experience, coupled with the strong relationships I’ve built over the years, gives me the tools I need to continue serving effectively in Congress and advocating for the people of our district.
How would you solicit input and feedback from residents in your district?
I live in the district and believe that staying connected with constituents is essential to effective representation. I fly home every week from D.C. after I finish hearings and voting. I regularly travel throughout the district, hosting roundtables, meetings, and community events to hear directly from residents. Additionally, I maintain close communication with local and state officials to ensure I understand the key issues facing our communities.
I’ve also implemented neighborhood office hours in every part of my district where constituents can meet with my staff and address any concerns. It’s a priority for me that every resident has easy access to my offices, whether in the district or Washington, D.C. By staying accessible and responsive, I can better represent the needs of the people I serve.
Read more
U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar’s corruption trial delayed until after election
National Republicans target Henry Cuellar’s South Texas seat after indictment
Two political consultants plead guilty in Henry Cuellar bribery case
Indicted on bribery, laundering counts, U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar denies wrongdoing
Feds allocate $17.8M for migrant aid; Cuellar warns travel funds make San Antonio a ‘magnet’
