Some Democratic lawmakers are expressing concerns over the potential reinstatement of Rep. Henry Cuellar to a significant committee position overseeing Homeland Security's budget, following his recent pardon by President Donald Trump. Cuellar stepped down from his role as the top Democrat on the Appropriations subcommittee after facing federal corruption charges in 2024, but now seeks to reclaim his influence over more than $60 billion in annual spending.

Despite being cleared by Trump's pardon, the ongoing Ethics Committee investigation and Cuellar's conservative stance on border policy continue to raise eyebrows among his colleagues. The decision rests with the 27 Democratic members of the House Appropriations Committee, who will cast a secret ballot on Thursday to determine his fate.

The vote itself, necessitated by at least one member's objection, underscores the division within the party. One Democratic appropriator, speaking anonymously, expressed moral reservations about supporting Cuellar, highlighting the critical nature of the Homeland Security post.

Rep. Lauren Underwood of Illinois, currently the top Democrat on the Homeland Security subcommittee, and others like Rep. Grace Meng of New York have not publicly disclosed their positions, adding to the uncertainty of the outcome. Other influential voices such as Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Rep. Mike Quigley may also sway the vote based on recent political dynamics and internal party criticisms.

Cuellar's spokesperson declined to comment on the matter, but it is known that Cuellar has been actively engaging with fellow Democrats to alleviate concerns about his return. This comes at a delicate time for the Democrats, who have been vocal critics of Trump's use of pardons to absolve allies, including controversial figures like former Illinois Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich.

The issue of presidential pardons has sparked broader criticism from several Democrats, including Rep. Seth Moulton and Sen. Andy Kim, who lament the erosion of public trust in politics due to perceived corruption and misuse of power.

Despite the controversy, some Democrats argue that Cuellar's proven electoral strength in his South Texas district, which is a key target for Republicans, should not be overlooked. His immediate filing for re-election post-pardon suggests he remains a valuable asset for retaining Democratic control in the area.

As the vote approaches, the Democratic Caucus faces a complex decision that balances legal, ethical, and strategic considerations, reflecting broader tensions within the party over how to handle members' misconduct and the implications of Trump's pardoning power. The outcome will likely resonate beyond Capitol Hill, influencing perceptions of Democratic integrity and unity in handling internal controversies.