Senator Bob Menendez ends political career after corruption conviction

Senator Bob Menendez, who was convicted of corruption, announced on August 16 that he is withdrawing from his bid as an independent candidate, marking the end of his political career.

The 70-year-old New Jersey Democrat will also resign from his Senate seat on August 20, which he has held since 2006, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Last month, a New York court convicted Menendez of extortion, obstruction of justice, and accepting bribes from businessmen connected to Egypt and Qatar. He faces sentencing on October 29 and could potentially receive a life sentence.

In a letter to Donna Barber, acting head of the New Jersey Division of Elections, Menendez requested that his name be removed from the ballot. This decision coincides with the announcement of his Senate replacement. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has appointed George Samir Helmy to fill Menendez's seat for the remainder of his term, which concludes in January.

Menendez's wife, Nadine, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer, is also facing charges in the case and will be tried separately.

During an FBI search of his New Jersey residence, agents discovered approximately $500,000 in cash, gold bars valued at around $150,000, and a luxury Mercedes-Benz convertible. As the former chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Menendez wielded significant influence over U.S. foreign policy but stepped down from the role 11 months ago following his indictment.