NNew Jersey Democrat Bob Menendez filed for re-election as an independent on Monday, a move that could be costly for Democrats trying to hold on to what has been a safe Senate seat.
Menendez, who is on trial in New York on corruption charges, could play the role of spoiler if a significant portion of voters stick with him. While Democrats are still the favorites to keep the New Jersey Senate seat, a Menendez candidacy could force the party to spend more money there when the party is already on defense nationally.
Get alerts on the biggest breaking news here.
New Jersey Republicans and Democrats hold their primaries on Tuesday, but Menéndez is not on the ballot. Democratic Rep. Andy Kim is expected to succeed Menendez.
The senator’s document appeared on the New Jersey Department of State website on Monday. His party is listed as “Menéndez for the Senate”.
Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan, who runs the Senate Democrats’ campaign operation, rejected the idea that Menendez’s decision could hurt the party’s nominee, saying “the Democrat is going to win.” But his Republican counterpart, Steve Daines of Montana, smiled and joked: “Keep an eye on New Jersey.”
Sen. Cory Booker, a New Jersey Democrat, called his colleague “a tremendous senator for the state of New Jersey when it comes to delivering results” and a good partner, but said the focus now should be on the trial, not in November. “He deserves a fair trial, where he will be judged by a jury of his peers,” Booker said.
Menendez, 70, pleaded not guilty, and his defense blamed his wife, Nadine, for withholding information from him about gold bars and other items that federal prosecutors say were bribes to the senator for various official acts.
See more information: The long, sordid history of foreign governments courting members of Congress
Menendez, who was first elected in 2005, stepped down as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee after his indictment but continues to vote and participate in confidential meetings and Senate committee hearings.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Menendez’s conduct, saying it fell far below the standard of a U.S. senator, but declined to address whether Menendez should be expelled, denied access to briefings or otherwise punished. other way.
This story originally appeared on Time.com read the full story
