One of the critical pieces of evidence against Menendez were gold bars seized during a December FBI search of his residence. These bars were linked to a 2013 armed robbery involving Daibes. The serial numbers of the gold bars connected them to the robbery, reinforcing the bribery charges against the senator.
In addition to these convictions, another businessman pleaded guilty before the trial and testified against Menendez and the other defendants. Menendez’s wife, Nadine, also faced charges; however, her trial has been postponed indefinitely as she undergoes treatment for advanced-stage breast cancer.
Calls to Resign
The Democratic leadership has been vocal in their calls for Menendez to step down. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy have all urged Menendez to resign in light of the guilty verdict.
“In light of this guilty verdict, Senator Menendez must now do what is right for his constituents, the Senate, and our country, and resign,” Schumer stated. Despite Menendez’s previous defiance, NBC reported that he is now prepared to relinquish his seat, citing sources familiar with the senator’s intentions.
