New Jersey Governor and Democratic Party Leaders Speak Out

Following the indictment of U.S. Senator Bob Menendez on federal bribery charges, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, General Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, and Democratic State Committee Chairman LeRoy Jones, Jr. have all called for Menendez’s immediate resignation.

Governor Murphy expressed his deep concern, stating, “The allegations in the indictment against Senator Menendez and four other defendants are deeply disturbing. These are serious charges that implicate national security and the integrity of our criminal justice system. Therefore, I am calling for his immediate resignation.”

Assembly Speaker Coughlin echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of public trust and stating, “We are given the public’s trust, and once that trust is broken, we cannot continue. Menendez must resign to allow New Jersey, and America, to move forward.”

Democratic State Committee Chairman Jones stressed the need for effective federal representation and urged Menendez to step down “in the interest of ensuring that New Jerseyans continue to be granted the federal representation that they deserve.” He also highlighted the upcoming state legislative elections and the importance of the Democratic party staying focused on state level races.

Pressure Mounts as Fellow Democrats Demand Resignation

Joining the call for resignation, U.S. Representatives Andy Kim and Mikie Sherrill also urged Senator Menendez to step down.

Indictment Alleges Serious Wrongdoing

The indictment charges Senator Menendez and his wife, Nadine Menendez, with three criminal counts. Additionally, three New Jersey businessmen are charged with two of the counts. The couple is accused of accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes over a span of four years while providing political favors to the businessmen in return. Prosecutors claim that these favors included sharing sensitive national security information with Egyptian officials.

Menendez Responds and Supporters Speak Out

Senator Menendez maintains his innocence and claims that the allegations have been misrepresented by prosecutors. In a statement, he stated, “The facts are not as presented.” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed his support for Menendez, acknowledging his dedication as a public servant, while New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin announced that his office is reviewing the concerns raised by the indictment.

Please note: This is breaking news. Check back for updates.