Democratic Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey, who was recently indicted on bribery charges, remained defiant and expressed his belief in his eventual exoneration as he responded to some of the specific allegations and evidence provided by prosecutors. This comes amid increasing calls for his resignation, including from fellow Democrats in the Senate such as Senators Sherrod Brown, Peter Welch, and John Fetterman.
During a statement to reporters, Menendez defended the discovery of hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash found during searches of his home, explaining that he had withdrawn cash from his personal savings account over the years for emergencies. He also mentioned that this practice was influenced by his family's experience in Cuba.
Menendez faces three charges, including being part of a bribery conspiracy. His wife and three individuals described as New Jersey associates and businessmen are also implicated in the conspiracy. The charges revolve around allegations of using Menendez's influence as a senator for personal gain and to benefit Egypt.
Menendez defended his actions related to Egypt, stating that his record demonstrates a consistent effort to hold Egypt accountable for various concerns, including the detention of American citizens and human rights abuses.
Prominent Democrats, including the governor of New Jersey and six members of the state's congressional delegation, have called for Menendez's resignation. Rep. Andy Kim has also announced his intention to challenge Menendez in the Democratic primary next year if Menendez seeks re-election.
Senators Brown and Welch joined Fetterman in becoming the second and third Senate Democrats to call for Menendez's resignation. Brown, who is up for re-election next year, stated that Menendez had broken the public trust and should resign, while Welch emphasized that the allegations against Menendez had compromised his ability to be an effective senator.
Fetterman, who initially called for Menendez's resignation over the weekend, announced that he would return $5,000 in campaign donations received from Menendez's political action committee.
Menendez has denied any wrongdoing and pushed back against calls for his resignation, attributing them to political expediency. He expressed confidence in his eventual exoneration, emphasizing his commitment to serving as New Jersey's senior senator.