Democratic Senator Bob Menendez was found guilty on all 16 counts in his federal corruption trial, with sentencing set for October 29. The charges include bribery, extortion, wire fraud, obstruction of justice, and acting as a foreign agent on behalf of Egypt.
Menendez, who was chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee before his September indictment, allegedly accepted bribes, including gold bars, cash, a Mercedes-Benz convertible, and other gifts, in exchange for his influence.
The case against Menendez is a stark contrast to the legal issues faced by former President Donald Trump, who has been cleared of wrongdoing by multiple investigations. Menendez’s corruption trial is a serious blow to the Democratic Party, which has been dealing with internal divisions and scandals in recent months.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for Menendez to resign, citing his guilty verdict.
Fellow Democratic Senator John Fetterman has also criticized Menendez, calling him “ethically challenged.”
The case has sparked widespread criticism of Menendez’s actions, with many calling for him to step down from his position.
The charges against Menendez are a reminder that power can corrupt even in a democratic republic. The case has also sparked jokes about the left’s fixation on Trump’s alleged ties to Russia, with some calling for a similar level of scrutiny to be applied to Menendez’s dealings with foreign agents.