Breaking News: Sen. Bob Menendez Withdraws Bid for Re-election
In a surprising turn of events, Sen. Bob Menendez has announced that he is withdrawing his bid as an independent candidate for a fourth term in the U.S. Senate. This decision marks the end of a once-storied political career that has been marred by accusations and a recent conviction on bribery and corruption charges.
The news broke after Menendez, 70, informed the New Jersey Division of Elections of his decision in an email on Friday afternoon. The letter, which was publicly released by the Secretary of State’s office, stated that the deadline to withdraw from the Nov. 5 election is fast approaching.
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His withdrawal comes just four days before his expected resignation. Following his announcement, Gov. Phil Murphy revealed that his former chief of staff, George Helmy, will fill the seat until voters elect a new senator in November.
“I am advising you that I wish to have my name withdrawn from the ballot,” Menendez wrote in the email to Donna Barber, acting director of the state Division of Elections.
Menendez, a Democrat, filed to run as an independent candidate back in June while battling 16 federal charges in a Manhattan courthouse. Ultimately, he was convicted on all counts in mid July.
Despite his conviction, Menendez has maintained his innocence and plans to appeal. However, facing pressure from top Democrats, he announced shortly after his conviction that he would resign.
Throughout his political career, which began at age 20, Menendez has served in various roles, including as Union City’s mayor and as a member of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He has been a strong advocate for immigrants’ rights and has been highly regarded by the Latino community.
These recent legal troubles are not unfamiliar to Menendez. In 2015, he faced bribery charges related to gifts he received from a major donor. Although that case ended in a mistrial, Menendez was re-elected the following year.
In his most recent case, federal prosecutors accused Menendez of various offenses, including obstruction of justice and accepting bribes in exchange for political favors. The trial, which began in May, featured testimony from key figures that shed light on the senator’s alleged wrongdoings.
Menendez was tried alongside two businessmen, both of whom were convicted on all counts. His sentencing is scheduled for October 29 in federal court.