Embattled New Jersey Democratic Senator Robert Menendez pleaded not guilty on Monday to a new charge of conspiring to act as a foreign agent for the government of Egypt while serving in Congress. The additional charge was brought against Menendez and his wife, Nadine Arslanian Menendez, after they had already pleaded not guilty to public corruption and bribery charges.
According to Manhattan prosecutors, the couple provided sensitive US government information and took steps that secretly helped the government of Egypt. They also allege that Menendez, his wife, and a co-defendant named Wael Hana worked to establish a corrupt agreement by introducing Egyptian intelligence and military officials to Menendez.
During the arraignment, Menendez declined to answer questions from reporters, and in a statement, he accused the government of engaging in a primitive hunting tactic. He emphasized his loyalty to the United States and his record of standing up for human rights and democracy in Egypt.
Menendez’s wife and Wael Hana were also indicted on the foreign agent charge and had previously pleaded not guilty. The three defendants had previously pleaded not guilty to bribery and corruption charges, which alleged that Menendez and his wife received lavish gifts in exchange for favors and sensitive knowledge to benefit the Egyptian government.
Menendez has denied any wrongdoing and intends to serve the remainder of his term, despite calls from two-thirds of Senate Democrats for his resignation. He is up for reelection next year but has not indicated whether he will seek another term.
In a mistrial in 2017, Menendez faced separate federal corruption charges related to allegations of accepting bribes from a wealthy Florida ophthalmologist.
Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman is the only Democrat calling for Menendez’s expulsion from the Senate.
Menendez stepped down as chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee but remains on the panel and continues to conduct regular Senate business. He recently recused himself from a classified briefing on the Israel-Hamas war due to the charges against him involving Egypt.
• This story is based in part on wire service reports.
Unique Perspective: Allegations of public corruption and acting as a foreign agent are serious charges that Sen. Bob Menendez has vehemently denied. As the legal proceedings unfold, it’s crucial to await a fair and impartial trial to determine the veracity of these allegations. In the meantime, these charges cast a shadow over Menendez’s political career and raise questions about his ability to effectively represent his constituents. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have significant implications for both Menendez and the reputation of the Democratic Party.
