Democratic Sen. Robert Menendez of New Jersey is set to hold a press conference on Monday, shortly after he and his wife were indicted on federal bribery charges.
Menendez and his wife, Nadine, have been charged with conspiracy to commit bribery, conspiracy to commit honest services fraud, and conspiracy to commit extortion under color of official right.
Prosecutors allege that the couple received significant sums of money and luxurious gifts in exchange for Menendez using his influence to benefit three New Jersey business associates and the Egyptian government. The businessmen involved also face charges.
Last week, Menendez denied the allegations and rejected calls to resign, stating “I’m not going anywhere.” This upcoming press conference will be the first time he publicly addresses the indictment. He and his co-defendants are due in court on Wednesday.
As per Senate Democratic Caucus rules, Menendez has temporarily stepped down from his position as the Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Menendez has served as a senator for New Jersey since 2006 and is up for reelection in 2024. Democratic Rep. Andy Kim of New Jersey recently announced his primary challenge against Menendez.
New Jersey’s former Republican Governor, Chris Christie, who is currently running for president, stated on Sunday that he has “no interest” in running for the Senate seat in 2024.
Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York also called for Menendez’s resignation, stating on “Face the Nation” that “it is in the best interest for Sen. Menendez to resign in this moment.” Several other Democratic lawmakers from New Jersey have echoed this sentiment, including Governor Phil Murphy.
There has been no statement from New Jersey Senator Cory Booker on the matter, and only one Democratic senator, John Fetterman from Pennsylvania, has called for Menendez to step down.
Back in 2015, Menendez was indicted on multiple charges, including bribery and conspiracy, in a case that ultimately ended in a mistrial.
How to watch Sen. Bob Menendez’s press conference
- What: Sen. Bob Menendez holds first press conference after federal indictment
- Date: Monday, Sept. 25, 2023
- Time: 11:30 a.m. ET
- Location: Union City, New Jersey
- Online stream: Live on CBS News in the player above and on your mobile or streaming device.
Melissa Quinn contributed to this report.
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