Jury selection is set to begin Monday for Senator Robert Menendez’s corruption trial, a significant event that could sway his re-election prospects and the balance of power in the Senate.
Menendez, along with two businessmen, faces charges of bribery conspiracy in Manhattan federal court, with the trial expected to last five to eight weeks. His wife, Nadine Menendez, also faces charges separately.
Facing an uphill battle, Menendez hopes to secure a fourth term as an independent despite recent polls showing his unpopularity among New Jersey voters and calls from fellow Democrats, including Senator Cory Booker, for his resignation.
With Democrats and their independent allies holding a slim 51-49 Senate majority, the trial’s outcome holds significant political implications.
Prosecutors allege Menendez accepted bribes, including cash, gold bars, and a luxury car, in exchange for leveraging his political influence in New Jersey and aiding governments in Egypt and Qatar. Allegations include promises to facilitate arms sales for Egypt and secure business deals for the defendants.
The trial also implicates Menendez’s wife in obstruction of justice charges, stemming from alleged crimes spanning from 2018 to 2023. A fifth defendant has pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors.
Menendez’s prior trial in 2017 ended in a mistrial after jurors failed to reach a verdict on charges related to favors received from a wealthy ophthalmologist in exchange for political assistance.
Despite New Jersey‘s Democratic-leaning voter base, Menendez’s approval ratings have plummeted following his indictment. Recent polls indicate dismal support, with fewer than one in six voters approving of his job performance and even fewer indicating they would vote for him as an independent.
As several Senate seats held by Democrats or independents face close contests in November, the outcome of Menendez’s trial could significantly impact the party’s standing and control of the Senate.
