Menendez Ends Senate Bid After Conviction

Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey has officially ended his independent bid for re-election to the U.S. Senate and will resign from his seat following his conviction on federal bribery and corruption charges. Menendez sent a letter to the New Jersey Division of Elections, requesting his name be withdrawn from the November ballot. His resignation is set for Tuesday, and Gov. Phil Murphy has appointed George Helmy to serve as his temporary replacement. Menendez's withdrawal comes after significant backlash and concerns that his candidacy could split the vote, potentially benefiting Republican candidate Curtis Bashaw against Democratic nominee Rep. Andy Kim. Menendez and his co-defendants, convicted of accepting bribes including gold bars and acting as foreign agents, face sentencing on October 29. The end of Menendez’s 31-year political career marks a significant shift in New Jersey politics as the state prepares for a cleaner electoral race.