Embattled Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey has managed to maintain a substantial amount of campaign funds despite spending around $2 million in his legal battles. His campaign still had $3.57 million in cash on hand after raising $19,632 and spending $2.1 million between April and May. The largest expenditure during this time was $2 million to Paul Hastings for legal services. Menendez had entered this time period with $5.67 million in cash on hand. The earnings came from a variety of donors and included interest accumulated from several banks.
Menendez announced in March that he would not seek a fourth term as a Democrat but left the possibility open for an independent run if he is cleared of federal corruption charges. He is currently facing 18 criminal counts related to corruption, bribery, and acting as a foreign agent for Egypt and Qatar. He and his wife are accused of accepting gold bars, a Mercedes-Benz convertible, and other gifts from New Jersey businessmen in exchange for political favors. He has maintained his innocence, with his attorney even attempting to shift blame to his wife during the trial proceedings.
Initially, Menendez’s wife was supposed to stand trial alongside him, but it has been postponed due to her battle with breast cancer. Menendez has been defensive of his wife, lashing out at reporters who have questioned her involvement in the legal matters. In terms of his political future, Menendez has decided not to seek re-election as a Democrat, leaving Rep. Andy Kim as the frontrunner for the party nomination in the upcoming primary. Menendez would need to secure 800 signatures by June 4 if he chooses to run as an Independent.
Despite facing pressure from both sides of the political aisle to resign, Menendez has remained steadfast in his decision to stay in his Senate seat. Polls show that he is unpopular with voters in New Jersey, potentially making it difficult for him to win re-election if he decides to run again. In 2017, Menendez faced bribery charges that ended in a hung jury, and he was re-elected in 2018 despite the controversy. With his current legal battles ongoing, Menendez will need to navigate a challenging political landscape if he chooses to continue his career in the Senate.
