Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) appeared in a Manhattan court to begin his trial for corruption charges, bribery, and acting as a foreign agent. Despite the allegations, Menendez is defiant and has stated he will not resign from his position until a verdict is reached. The trial is expected to last several months and focuses on accusations of aiding Egypt and Qatar, as well as receiving extravagant gifts from businessmen, including gold bars.
If convicted, Menendez, who is 70 years old, could potentially continue serving in the Senate, casting votes and even being reelected in November. However, Members of Congress are not automatically removed from office upon a felony conviction, as stated in a report by the Congressional Research Service.
Menendez’s support among voters has significantly decreased, and Rep. Andy Kim (D-NJ) is considered a front-runner to replace him in the upcoming election. Despite facing multiple felony charges, Menendez has not resigned and has only expressed a desire to seek reelection if exonerated.
Senate Democrats, with the exception of Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), have called for Menendez’s resignation. He was removed from his position on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and has stated he will run as an “independent Democrat” if he seeks reelection.
The trial is set to determine Menendez’s fate, as he faces 16 felony counts including bribery, extortion, and acting as a foreign agent. In the event of his resignation or expulsion, Governor Phil Murphy (D-NJ) would appoint a replacement to serve until the end of Menendez’s term.
Despite facing similar charges in 2015, which resulted in a mistrial, Menendez is now back in court facing potential conviction. The trial is a pivotal moment for Menendez, who has not made any statements to the media regarding the ongoing proceedings.
