NEW YORK, NY – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez has been charged with accepting bribes, casting a shadow over Democrats’ hopes to retain control of the U.S. Senate in the upcoming elections. The senior New Jersey senator temporarily stepped down as chairman of the Senate’s Foreign Relations Committee, according to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.
The U.S. Attorney’s office in Manhattan alleges that Menendez, 69, received cash and gold bars worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. These were purportedly in exchange for using his influence to benefit the Egyptian government and obstruct investigations into three New Jersey businessmen.
Menendez has been a significant supporter of President Joe Biden’s international policies. His indictment led to calls for his resignation from several Democratic officials, including New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. Despite this, Menendez declared he had no intention to resign.
Prosecutors are looking to seize Menendez’s New Jersey home, a 2019 Mercedes-Benz convertible, and about $566,000 in various assets. The indictment included images of gold bars and cash found in Menendez’s home.
Damian Williams, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, highlighted that Menendez had used his influence improperly. Menendez countered that the prosecutors had misconstrued regular legislative activities.
Nadine Menendez, the senator’s wife, also faces charges. Her lawyer stated she denies any wrongdoing and plans to defend vigorously against the allegations.
The senator has faced previous investigations but has never been convicted. He intends to seek re-election next year. The case complicates Democratic efforts to maintain their slim majority in the Senate. Both Menendez and his wife are expected to appear in court on September 27 to face the charges.
