Senator Bob Menendez to resign on August 20 after bribery conviction | Wilnesh News

New Jersey Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, who was convicted last week in a federal bribery case, said in a letter that he will resign his Senate seat on August 20.

Menendez said last Wednesday that he would resign from the Senate due to the criminal conviction, but he did not give a specific date. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, will appoint a senator to fill the remainder of Menendez’s term.

Menendez was found guilty on all 16 criminal counts in Manhattan federal court on July 17, accusing him of accepting bribes, including cash and gold bars, in exchange for taking actions that benefited the governments of Egypt and Qatar.

“While I fully intend to appeal the jury’s verdict, including all the way to the Supreme Court, I do not want the Senate to become embroiled in a lengthy process that would detract from its important work,” Menendez wrote in his resignation letter. .

“Moreover, I cannot preserve my rights upon a successful appeal because questions of fact before the Ethics Commission are not privileged,” he wrote.

“I am proud of my many accomplishments representing New Jersey, such as leading federal efforts in Superstorm Sandy recovery, protecting and funding gateways, and leading federal efforts to help save our hospitals, state, and cities.” Menendez wrote: ” Together with New Jersey families, we are experiencing a once-in-a-century COVID-19 pandemic. “

Two New Jersey businessmen, Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, were convicted in the same trial on charges related to the bribery of Menendez. A third defendant, Jose Uribe, had previously pleaded guilty.

Menendez will be sentenced on October 29.

His wife, Nadine Menendez, also faces criminal charges in the case, and her trial is separate from that of the senators and other defendants. Nadine’s trial has been postponed indefinitely as she undergoes surgery after being diagnosed with breast cancer.