Sen. Bob Menendez Faces Sweeping Bribery Charges as Trial Commences

The New Jersey senator is accused of accepting bribes including cash, gold bars, and luxury items in exchange for political favors to foreign governments and local businessmen.

Menendez and his wife, Nadine, are charged with multiple counts of bribery, extortion, and obstruction of justice, linked to their dealings with Egyptian and Qatari governments.
The trial, starting with jury selection, marks Menendez's second major legal battle, following a previous corruption case that ended in a mistrial.
Prosecutors allege Menendez used his Senate position to influence U.S. foreign aid and protect business monopolies in exchange for personal gains.
Co-defendant Jose Uribe has pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with investigators, potentially testifying against Menendez.
Menendez has denied all charges, suggesting the cash and gold found at his home were part of 'old-fashioned' savings and coping mechanisms.