Former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez (D) has been handed an 11-year prison term for corruption charges. Menendez condemned the verdict, labeling it a “political prosecution” and citing former President Trump’s own legal troubles as evidence of an unfair justice system.
Menendez was convicted of accepting bribes and acting as an agent for Egypt, making him the first U.S. official found guilty of serving a foreign government while still in office.
Speaking outside the courthouse, Menendez declared, “President Trump was right… this process is political and corrupt.” He did not reveal whether he intends to seek a pardon from Trump.
Menendez stepped down from the Senate last year after being stripped of his committee leadership role. He is reportedly weighing a political comeback, possibly as an independent candidate.
