New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez is facing trial on charges of bribery and corruption, which could potentially end his political career, according to a former lawmaker. Menendez is accused of accepting money and gold bars in exchange for favors like increasing aid to Egypt and helping a friend monopolize the halal meat market. This is Menendez’s second trial in seven years.
Former New Jersey state legislator John Wisniewski believes Menendez has no political future, even if he is acquitted of the charges. Wisniewski predicts that Menendez will be tarnished for life due to his multiple brushes with federal investigators. Menendez is currently serving his third term in the Senate and has announced he will not run as a Democrat for a fourth term in November. Wisniewski suggests that Menendez may consider running as an independent, as the Democratic Party has distanced themselves from him.
The scandal surrounding Menendez could also harm the reputation of his son, U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez. Wisniewski notes that the Menendez name is becoming increasingly tarnished as the trial progresses, potentially affecting the son’s reputation as well.
