U.S. Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey and his wife, Nadine Menendez, were indicted on federal bribery charges
The indictment also named three New Jersey businessmen: Wael Hana, Jose Uribe, and Fred Daibes.
The bribes allegedly included cash, gold, a Mercedes-Benz convertible, home mortgage payments, and other things of value
The Menendezes have denied all of the charges against them.
They have called the indictment a "witch hunt" and have vowed to fight the charges in court.
Menendezes and the three businessmen are scheduled to appear in federal court on October 10, 2023
If they are found guilty, they could face up to 20 years in prison
The indictment is a major blow to Senator Menendez's political career
He is facing a re-election campaign in 2024, and the bribery charges will make it difficult for him to win.
Senator Menendez is a powerful politician, and his absence from the Senate would leave a big void.
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