Sen. Bob Menendez Running as Independent Candidate
Sen. Bob Menendez is collecting petition signatures to run for re-election as an independent candidate after being charged with accepting bribes and facing trial. He is seeking support from friends to gather at least 800 signatures before the June 4 deadline.
Key Points
- Menendez collecting petition signatures to run as an independent candidate
- Facing charges of accepting bribes from businessmen and allegedly benefiting Egypt and Qatar
- Trial ongoing with accusations of receiving valuables from the Qatari royal family
- Facing financial challenges for the campaign
- Jurors at trial presented with evidence of cash and gold bars found in Menendez's home
- Menendez pleads not guilty to charges
Pros
- Preserving option to keep his seat or enhance bargaining position in a three-way race
- Ability to run independently without party constraints
Cons
- Charged with accepting bribes from businessmen
- Facing trial for alleged corruption