US pro-Armenian senator faces possible expulsion Senate Ethics Committee dealing with Menendez case

On July 22, Senate Ethics Committee leaders informed convicted US Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) that the committee has voted to initiate an adjudicatory review of his alleged violations of Senate Rules.

This review could lead to a future vote on expulsion or censure, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

Ethics Committee Chairman Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Vice Chairman James Lankford (R-Okla.) stated that the review is expected to be completed promptly. "An adjudicatory review is required when the committee considers disciplinary actions, such as expulsion or censure," they said. "The review will follow the Committee Supplementary Rules of Procedure, ensuring that Sen. Menendez is granted all procedural rights."

Upon completion of the review, the committee will swiftly submit a written report to the Senate detailing specific findings and any recommendations for disciplinary action.

A majority of the Senate Democratic Conference, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), has urged Senator Bob Menendez to resign following his conviction on 16 counts, including bribery, extortion, obstruction of justice, and acting as a foreign agent.

At least four Democratic senators—Tammy Baldwin (Wis.), Bob Casey (Pa.), Jacky Rosen (Nev.), and Jon Tester (Mont.)—have indicated they are prepared to vote for Menendez's expulsion if he does not resign voluntarily. Senate Republican Whip John Thune (R-S.D.) also stated last week that expulsion would be “appropriate” if Menendez does not step down.

To expel Menendez, a two-thirds majority of the Senate would be required, while a simple majority would suffice for censure. Menendez's term is set to end at the end of the year, and he is anticipated to lose his re-election bid. Rep. Andy Kim (D-N.J.), the Democratic nominee for New Jersey’s Senate seat, is currently the favoured candidate for the November election.