Sen. Menendez Seeks Dismissal of Corruption Charges, Calls Prosecution 'Persecution'
• Sen. Menendez filed a motion to dismiss corruption charges against him, calling them unconstitutional and an overreach by prosecutors to unfairly damage his reputation.
• Menendez was previously indicted on bribery charges for allegedly accepting gifts in exchange for political favors. He faces additional charges of illegally aiding a foreign government.
• Menendez argues the charges are politically motivated and he should not have to stand trial, though he maintains his innocence and calls the allegations sensationalized.
• The senator temporarily stepped down from chairing the Senate Foreign Relations Committee after his initial indictment but remains a committee member.
• Menendez gave a defiant Senate floor speech denouncing the case against him as persecution, not prosecution, and slamming colleagues calling for his resignation.