Senator Menendez Resigns After Conviction

New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez announced his resignation following his conviction on 16 counts of corruption, including acting as a foreign agent for Egypt and accepting bribes from businessmen. Prominent Democratic leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, had called for his resignation. Menendez's political career, spanning over three decades, saw him rise to chair the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The conviction marks the end of his tenure marred by legal troubles, despite his initial defiance and claims of innocence. Governor Murphy will appoint a temporary replacement until January 2025, while Democratic Rep. Andy Kim and Republican Curtis Bashaw are running for the seat in the upcoming election. The conviction and subsequent resignation reflect a significant moment in New Jersey politics, with Menendez's legacy now overshadowed by corruption.