Sen. Bob Menendez May Blame Wife for Alleged Bribery Scheme in Upcoming Trial

New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez may seek to exonerate himself at his upcoming bribery trial by blaming his wife, Nadine Menendez, claiming she kept him in the dark about any illegal dealings with New Jersey businessmen. According to newly unsealed court documents, Menendez's lawyers plan to argue that he lacked the necessary knowledge and intent to commit a crime, suggesting that any wrongdoing may have involved the actions of others, including his wife.

The Menendezes and two businessmen have pleaded not guilty to charges of participating in a bribery scheme, where the couple allegedly received cash and gold bars in exchange for the senator carrying out political favors. A third businessman has pleaded guilty and agreed to testify against the others at trial. The judge has ruled that the trials of the senator and his wife can take place separately after it was revealed that Nadine Menendez needs surgery in the next six weeks, delaying her trial until at least July.

Menendez's lawyers stated they may have to argue that Nadine Menendez withheld information from the senator or led him to believe nothing unlawful was taking place. This defense strategy was initially kept under seal, but a court order has now made it public.

Why this matters: The outcome of this high-profile bribery case could have significant implications for Senator Menendez's political career and the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. The legal strategy of blaming his wife adds a new twist to the case and raises questions about the strength of the prosecution's evidence against the senator himself.

The case against Menendez involves serious allegations of accepting bribes, including cash, gold bars, and luxury items, in exchange for political favors. Prosecutors allege that the Menendezes were acting as foreign agents on behalf of the Egyptian and Qatari governments. Both Bob and Nadine Menendez have pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Key Takeaways

• Sen. Menendez may blame wife Nadine for alleged bribery scheme
• Menendez, wife, and 2 businessmen plead not guilty to bribery charges
• Trials of Menendez and wife to be held separately due to wife's surgery
• Menendez's defense may argue wife withheld information from him
• Outcome of high-profile case could impact Menendez's political career