Senator Bob Menendez, a Democrat from New Jersey, has informed his allies that he will resign from Congress following his conviction on federal corruption charges, according to a report from NBC News.
Despite resisting calls from Senate Democrats to step down, Menendez decided to resign after facing a guilty verdict and increasing pressure to leave his position.
The backstory: Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, and Menendez’s friend Senator Cory Booker had all urged him to resign, emphasizing the importance of doing what is right for his constituents, the Senate and the country.
The big picture: Menendez was convicted on 16 federal counts related to using his official position to benefit businessmen and foreign governments, receiving bribes in return.
- The bribes included cash, gold bars, mortgage payments, a luxury vehicle and other valuable items.
What we’re watching: If Menendez resigns, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy will appoint a temporary senator to complete his term, which ends in January 2025.
- Democratic Rep. Andy Kim and Republican Curtis Bashaw are running in the general election to fill Menendez’s Senate seat.
