Democratic Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey is facing charges of bribery along with his wife, Nadine Menendez, as prosecutors allege that the couple accepted hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes from three New Jersey businessmen. The bribes reportedly included cash, gold, payments towards their home mortgage, and compensation for a low-or-no-show job. The indictment also states that Menendez used his position of power to influence foreign policy for the benefit of Egypt.

Prosecutors have called for Menendez to forfeit assets, including his home, a 2019 Mercedes-Benz convertible, and $566,000 in cash, gold bars, and bank account funds. The charges against Menendez and his wife carry a maximum sentence of 45 years in prison, although judges in such cases typically impose sentences below the maximum.

Despite the charges, Menendez has denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to remain in Congress. This decision has defied calls from elected officials in New Jersey, including the state's Democratic governor, for him to step down. Menendez's decision to stay in the Senate may complicate his party's efforts to maintain their narrow majority in the chamber. However, it is worth noting that New Jersey has not elected a Republican senator since 1972.

As a result of the charges, Menendez has temporarily stepped down from his role as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Senate Democratic rules require any member charged with a felony to give up their leadership position, although they can regain it if found not guilty.

In his first public remarks since being charged, Menendez expressed confidence that he would be exonerated and stated that his record is clear and consistent regarding actions related to Egypt and human rights abuses. However, he did not respond to shouted questions from reporters.

This is not the first time Menendez has come under investigation by federal prosecutors, although he has never been convicted. The senator, known for being a powerful voice on foreign policy, has been critical of moves made by the Obama administration to ease relations with Cuba and the U.S.-Iran nuclear deal. He has also been involved in unsuccessful efforts to overhaul the U.S. immigration system.

Menendez and his wife, along with the three businessmen, are scheduled to appear in Manhattan federal court to respond to the charges. Menendez, who is of Cuban descent, will also face re-election next year, as he seeks to extend his three-decade career in Washington. The outcome of his case and potential trial could have significant implications for both him personally and the Democratic Party's hold on a narrow majority in the Senate.