Senator Bob Menendez is facing increasing pressure to resign from his Democratic colleagues in the Senate. Over 20 Senate Democrats, including Cory Booker, have called for Menendez’s resignation due to federal bribery allegations against him. The calls for his resignation come after the indictment of Menendez and his wife, accusing them of using his position to aid the Egyptian government and engage in corrupt acts. Menendez has denied any wrongdoing, but the allegations have shaken the trust of his constituents. Despite the calls for his resignation, Menendez has not indicated whether he will run for reelection next year.
The increasing calls for Menendez’s resignation highlight the seriousness of the allegations against him. Democratic senators, including Tammy Baldwin, Jon Tester, and Elizabeth Warren, have joined Booker in urging Menendez to step aside. This puts pressure on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and other Democratic leaders who have not yet recommended Menendez’s resignation. Menendez’s defiance in the face of these allegations is reminiscent of his previous bribery case, where he was also adamant about his innocence. However, the current situation is different, with more senators from his own party demanding his resignation.
If Menendez chooses to run for reelection, he will face opposition within his own party. Rep. Andy Kim has already announced his candidacy, citing the charges against Menendez as his reason for running. Menendez is also unlikely to receive support from his party, as the chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, Gary Peters, has called for his resignation and stated that Menendez is not able to serve effectively. The outcome of this situation will have significant implications for Menendez’s political career and the faith and trust of the public in the Senate as an institution.