Representative Henry Cuellar, Democratic from Texas

Henry Cuellar

Representative · Texas · Democrat

Henry Cuellar

Biography
Henry Cuellar, raised in a family of migrant farmworkers, brought years of public service experience to Congress when he was elected to represent Texas’s 28th District in 2004. He champions border security, international trade, and access to affordable healthcare, reflecting the unique needs of his South Texas constituents. Cuellar has played a key role on the House Appropriations Committee and was instrumental in securing funding to improve border infrastructure. Known for his pragmatic approach and willingness to work across the aisle, he consistently prioritizes practical solutions to enhance the well-being and economic vitality of his district.
Education
  • Ph.D. in Government, University of Texas, Austin, TX
    1998
  • M.B.A. in International Trade, Texas A&M University, Laredo, TX
    1982
  • J.D., University of Texas, Austin, TX
    1981
  • B.S., Cum laude, Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, Washington, DC
    1978
  • A.A., Laredo Junior College, Laredo, TX, 1976 (now known as Laredo Community College)
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2005–Present

    Represented Texas's 28th congressional district for 11 terms.

  • Secretary of State of Texas

    2001

    Appointed by Governor Rick Perry and served just over nine months as the state’s chief elections and records officer.

  • State Representative, Texas House of Representatives

    1987–2001

    Represented a district covering most of Laredo and served on the Appropriations, Higher Education, and Calendars committees.

  • Adjunct Professor of International Commercial Law, Texas A&M International University

    1984–1986

    Taught international commercial law courses at Texas A&M International University in Laredo.

  • Attorney in Private Practice, Laredo Law Firm Owner

    1981–2004

    Opened and operated his own law firm in Laredo beginning in 1981.

  • Licensed Customs Broker

    1983–2004

    Became a licensed customs broker in 1983, working on matters related to cross-border trade.

Policy Focus
Immigration22%
Labor and Employment13%
Transportation and Public Works13%
International Affairs13%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Henry Cuellar's record in Congress.

  • USMCA Trade Agreement

    Helped negotiate and pass the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement to strengthen cross-border trade.

  • Border Infrastructure Funding

    Secured federal funding for improvements to border infrastructure and customs facilities in South Texas.

  • Veterans' Health Care Access

    Championed legislation expanding veterans' access to health care services in rural and underserved areas.

  • Higher Education Grants

    Obtained increased federal grants for Hispanic-serving institutions and colleges in his district.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Appropriations

Rep. Henry Cuellar FAQ

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