New Jersey judge prohibits Bob Menendez from serving in public office

Dec. 6 A New Jersey court has ruled that former Senator Bob Menendez, D-N.J., is barred from seeking any public office in the state following his federal conviction on bribery and related charges. The decision was issued Friday by Mercer County Superior Court Judge Robert Lougy.

The ruling came after state authorities filed a lawsuit to stop Menendez, 71, from holding office, amid speculation that a presidential pardon from Donald Trump could be possible. The judge warned that if Menendez attempts to run, campaign, or be appointed to public office, he would face a fourth-degree contempt-of-court charge.

New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin praised the decision, stating that maintaining public trust in government requires preventing convicted officials from regaining positions of power. He emphasized that corruption is a serious issue in New Jersey politics and that the courts ruling serves as a clear deterrent.

Menendez started serving an 11-year federal prison term in June after being convicted of conspiracy to commit bribery, extortion under the guise of official duties, and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors alleged that Menendez and his wife, Nadine, received hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes, including $150,000 in gold bars. Nadine Menendez was also convicted and sentenced to 4.5 years in prison.

Federal authorities further accused Menendez of aiding New Jersey business owners who bribed him and facilitating deals for foreign governments, including securing $300 million in U.S. military aid for Egypt. Menendez had been a U.S. Senator since 2006 and resigned in August 2024, while continuing to appeal his conviction and maintain his innocence.

Author: Caleb Jennings