The younger Menendez — a freshman member of the House of Representatives — represents a safely Democratic seat in Hudson County, just across the river from New York City. His father’s role in winning support for the seat in 2022 without real opposition is widely seen as a key to his ascent to Congress.
However, his political future has been thrown into uncertainty after federal prosecutors released an explosive indictment against his father on Friday. The indictment alleges that the elder Menendez used his office to improperly receive cash, gold bars and a luxury vehicle to help New Jersey businessmen and the Egyptian government.
Rob Menendez — who has not been charged or suspected of wrongdoing — has defended his father after nearly every major Democratic figure in the state called for the senator’s resignation.
“I have unwavering faith in my father and his commitment to the New Jerseyans for whom he fought relentlessly throughout his long career as a public servant. I believe strongly in his integrity and his values, and look forward to seeing him move past this distraction and continue fighting for our state in the United States Senate,” he said in a statement after the indictment was released Friday.
The district includes much of deep blue Hudson County, where Bob Menendez began his career in politics and enjoys his strongest political support. According to the New Jersey Globe, Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla is considering a primary challenge against the younger Menendez.
Earlier Monday, Bob Menendez gathered the press in his native Union City to refute the charges against him and resist calls for his resignation.
“I firmly believe that when all the facts are presented, not only will I be acquitted, but I will still be New Jersey’s senior senator,” he said.