[ad_1]
Texas Rep. Henry Cuellar announced he was running for re-election on Tuesday — days after federal agents raided his home and campaign office.
The Democrat posted a video to his Twitter account saying he appreciated the “outpouring of support” from members of the community after an FBI sweep reportedly part of a larger investigation focused on the Republic of Azerbaijan.
“Let me be clear: I’m running for re-election and I intend to win,” Cuellar said in the video, shot in front of his childhood home. “I will continue to represent the congressional district of Texas like I always have. It is the honor of my life to represent you in Congress and together, we will this election.
Cuellar, who took office in the House of Representatives in 2005, didn’t address any specifics of the probe or what the FBI sought or obtained through their raids. It isn’t clear if Cuellar is a direct target of the FBI in its investigation.
“There is an ongoing investigation that will show that there was no wrongdoing on my part,” Cuellar said. “As an attorney I know firsthand that the legal system is a pillar of our democracy. I pride myself on being your congressman and always doing things honestly, ethically and the right way.”
During the search of the congressman’s home and office in Laredo last week, agents were seen taking a computer and other items from the house. Agents were also seen snapping pictures of trucks parked at the house.
The federal investigation was looking into the former Soviet republic and its ties to several US businessmen, sources told ABC News. Cuellar, who represents the Lone Star State’s 28th congressional district and sits on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, serves on a Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus.
Cuellar’s announcement comes as he faces an intraparty challenge from the left, with opponent Jessica Cisneros picking up some high-profile endorsements in the race in the wake of the FBI search. Cuellar, 68, has sided with Republicans on issues including abortion and been critical of the White House’s handling of immigration issues.
[ad_2]