DAILY CALLER NEWS FOUNDATION—Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey reportedly confirmed to Democratic lawmakers he will resign from his position following his conviction in a federal bribery trial, two sources familiar with the matter told NBC News.
The senator, a former Democrat who recently became an independent, was convicted Tuesday on all 16 counts of his involvement in a bribery and corruption scheme, involving three New Jersey businessmen and the Egyptian government.
Over the past few months, Menendez has been facing mounting pressure from Democratic lawmakers, as sources close to the matter say he’s reportedly made calls to his allies about his intention to step down, according to NBC News.
The resignation from Menendez would ultimately end his three decades in politics after undergoing a criminal trial over allegations of corruption.
Menendez was indicted March 5 after an investigation found more than $480,000 in cash, a luxury vehicle that was purchased by the businessmen for Menendez’s wife, and more than $100,000 of gold bars, the investigation filing stated.
Following the verdict, Menendez stated he was “deeply disappointed by the jury’s decision,” noting his optimism in his legal team’s appeal for the case.
However, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., called for his resignation, as did other Democrats, such as Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin of Illinois and Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., according to posts on X (formerly Twitter).
“In light of this guilty verdict, Senator Menendez must now do what is right for his constituents, the Senate, and our country, and resign,” Schumer wrote on X, following the verdict.
Despite calls for him to step aside, prior to the ruling, Menendez stated in March that he would be running again for reelection as an independent, officially switching his party for the race on June 3.
Menendez has been at the center of several indictments and investigations, prior to his latest verdict, since 2006.
If reports are confirmed, it’s unclear when the senator would be stepping aside, as he would be leaving the Senate race to Rep. Andy Kim, D-N.J., and Republican candidate Curtis Bashaw.
Menendez’s office did not immediately respond to the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment.
Originally published by the Daily Caller News Foundation
