A month after being found guilty on multiple corruption charges, Cuban-American Senator Bob Menéndez announced he is ending his bid for the U.S. Senate as an independent candidate, effectively concluding a political career spanning five decades.
Menéndez, a Democratic Senator from New Jersey, launched an independent campaign after deciding in March not to seek re-election as a Democrat in November, following criticism within the party over bribery allegations against him.
EFE reported that Menéndez will not seek another six-year term in the Senate, after confirming he sent an email to the acting director of the New Jersey election board requesting his name be removed from the ballot.
In response, New Jersey's Democratic Governor Phil Murphy appointed his former chief of staff, George Helmy, to temporarily replace Menéndez until the current legislative term ends in January. "It's a tragic end to a long and productive career in public service," Murphy stated.
The Cuban-American has represented New Jersey in Congress as a Democrat since 1992, first as a representative and then as a senator starting in 2006. In the Senate, he served as chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, where he fought against the Castro dictatorship and advocated for democratic change in Cuba.
In July, Menéndez was found guilty of 16 corruption charges, including accepting bribes in the form of gold, cash, and a luxury car. Prosecutors argued that he abused his political influence to shield his allies from legal investigations and benefit associates, including his wife.
"I have never violated my public oath. I have always been a patriot of my country," Menéndez told reporters outside the courthouse after the guilty verdict. "I have full faith that the law and facts did not support that decision and that we will succeed on appeal," he added.
The sentence will be announced on October 29.
Bob Menéndez Corruption Case: Key Questions Answered
As the news of Bob Menéndez ending his Senate bid and political career unfolds, here are some key questions and answers to help understand the situation better.
Why did Bob Menéndez decide to end his Senate bid?
Bob Menéndez decided to end his Senate bid after being found guilty on multiple corruption charges, following criticism within his party and the decision to launch an independent campaign.
Who will replace Bob Menéndez in the Senate?
New Jersey's Democratic Governor Phil Murphy appointed his former chief of staff, George Helmy, to temporarily replace Bob Menéndez until the current legislative term ends in January.
What were the charges against Bob Menéndez?
Bob Menéndez was found guilty of 16 corruption charges, including accepting bribes in the form of gold, cash, and a luxury car, and abusing his political influence to protect his allies and benefit associates.
When will Bob Menéndez be sentenced?
Bob Menéndez's sentencing is scheduled for October 29.