NEW YORK, USA (AFP) — US Senator Robert Menendez announced on Tuesday that he will resign from his Senate seat next month, following his recent conviction on bribery and corruption charges.
The 70-year-old New Jersey Democrat informed New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy that he plans to step down on August 20. Menendez, who has held the Senate seat since 2006, was convicted in New York last week on charges including extortion, obstruction of justice, and accepting bribes in exchange for favors to businessmen with connections to Egypt and Qatar.
Menendez is scheduled to be sentenced on October 29, with the possibility of receiving a life sentence. In his resignation letter, he stated his decision to step down was to prevent the Senate from being embroiled in a prolonged legal process that could detract from its essential work. Menendez has indicated his intention to appeal the conviction.
The senator’s resignation comes amid pressure from Democratic colleagues to resign, which would allow the party to avoid a potentially contentious vote to expel him. This move would also prevent potential disruptions ahead of the upcoming presidential election.
Democratic Governor Murphy announced he will appoint an interim successor to serve until Menendez’s term ends in January. With Democrats holding a narrow 51-49 majority in the 100-member Senate, Menendez’s resignation could further impact their slim control.
Menendez’s wife, Nadine, was also implicated in the case and is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. She will face a separate trial. The FBI’s search of the couple’s New Jersey home uncovered approximately $500,000 in cash, $150,000 in gold bars, and a luxury Mercedes-Benz convertible.
Democrat Andy Kim and Republican Curtis Bashaw are set to contest the Senate seat in November. Menendez has hinted at running as an independent but has not yet made a final decision.
