NEW JERSEY (PIX11) – U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey announced Thursday he will not be running in the Democratic primary in June as he faces federal corruption charges.
However, Menendez left open the possibility that he would reenter the race as an independent later this year if he is exonerated at a trial.
"I am hopeful that my exoneration will take place this summer and allow me to pursue my candidacy as an independent Democrat in the general election," Menendez said in a video announcement.
The decision comes as Menendez fights federal bribery charges, along with his wife, Nadine, and three business associates.
Menendez and his spouse are charged with taking bribes of gold bars, cash and a Mercedes-Benz in return for the senator’s help with projects pursued by three New Jersey businessmen. In return for the haul, Menendez helped one of the men get a lucrative meat-certification deal with Egypt, taking actions favorable to the Egyptian government, according to prosecutors.
An additional indictment said Menendez helped another associate get a deal with a Qatari investment fund.
Menendez maintained that he is innocent of the accusations.
"I know many of you are hurt and disappointed in me with the accusations I'm facing. Believe me, I am disappointed at the false accusations as well. All I can ask of you is to withhold judgment until justice takes place," Menendez said.
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