Underwood will immediately replace Cuellar in prominent financing role after indictment

Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.) is expected to become the top Democrat on the House subcommittee that crafts funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), replacing Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) shortly after he was indicted on charges of bribery.

Advisors confirmed the news, first reported by Bloomberg Government, to The Hill on Friday afternoon.

A House Democratic aide said Underwood, who was previously tapped to serve on the subcommittee in 2021will immediately begin serving as a ranking member on the GOP-led subcommittee.

The news comes shortly after House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries’ (DN.Y.) office confirmed that Cuellar would step down following reports that the Texas Democrat and his wife had been indicted. Cuellar allegedly accepted nearly $600,000 in bribes and laundered the funds.

Jeffries’ office said Cuellar would take a leave of absence in accordance with House rules.

“Henry Cuellar has admirably dedicated his career to public service and is a valued member of the House Democratic Caucus,” the office said. “Like any American, Congressman Cuellar is entitled to his day in court and the presumption of innocence throughout the legal process.”

“Pursuant to House Democratic Caucus Rule 24, Congressman Cuellar will take a leave of absence as ranking member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee while this matter is ongoing.”