Newark, NJ – A federal jury has convicted Nadine Menendez on bribery and corruption charges, marking the latest chapter in a high-profile case that has already seen her husband, former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, found guilty on similar counts.
The verdicts cement the prosecution’s narrative that the couple operated as “partners in crime” in a scheme involving cash, gold bars, and a luxury car in exchange for political favors.
The trial, which captivated the state and drew national attention, centered on allegations that the Menendezes leveraged Bob Menendez’s political influence to secure benefits for private individuals and foreign entities. Prosecutors presented evidence of lavish gifts, including hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, 13 gold bars, and a Mercedes-Benz convertible, which they claimed were bribes for Menendez’s assistance in securing business deals and influencing U.S. policy.
“This was a blatant abuse of power,” said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams in a statement following the verdict. “Nadine and Bob Menendez worked hand-in-hand to enrich themselves at the expense of the public trust.”
During the trial, prosecutors portrayed Nadine Menendez as an active participant, alleging she acted as a go-between for her husband and his benefactors, including New Jersey businessmen and representatives of the Egyptian government. The defense, however, argued that Nadine Menendez was unaware of the full scope of her husband’s dealings and maintained that the gifts were personal gestures, not bribes.
The jury deliberated for three days before delivering the guilty verdict on all counts, including bribery, conspiracy, and honest services fraud. Nadine Menendez, 57, showed little emotion as the verdict was read, while her legal team vowed to appeal.
Bob Menendez, 71, was convicted in July 2024 on 16 counts, including bribery, extortion, and acting as a foreign agent. He resigned from the Senate shortly after, ending a decades-long career that once positioned him as one of New Jersey’s most powerful political figures. His sentencing is scheduled for next month, and he faces up to 20 years in prison. Nadine Menendez’s sentencing date has not yet been set, but she could face a similar term.
The case has sent shockwaves through New Jersey’s political landscape, raising questions about corruption and influence in government. Governor Phil Murphy, who appointed a replacement for Menendez in the Senate, called the verdicts “a sad day for our state” but emphasized the importance of accountability.
As the Menendezes await sentencing, federal authorities continue to investigate related allegations involving other individuals named in the case. The convictions serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of public corruption, with prosecutors signaling that their fight against such crimes remains ongoing.
“This verdict sends a clear message,” Williams said. “No one is above the law—not a senator, not their spouse, not anyone.”