Menendez May Run Independent if Cleared, Skips Democratic Primary

Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey has chosen not to participate in the Democratic primary amid federal corruption charges, including bribery and obstruction of justice, which he and his wife are facing. Menendez, however, has not ruled out the possibility of running for a fourth term as an independent candidate if he is exonerated before the general election. The senator has denied any wrongdoing and is accused of using his political influence to benefit three New Jersey businessmen and the governments of Egypt and Qatar.

The legal proceedings against Menendez are ongoing, with a trial set to begin in May. The charges have led to significant pressure from within his party, with over 30 Senate Democrats and prominent New Jersey figures urging him to step aside. Despite this, Menendez has until June 4 to gather the required 800 signatures necessary to file for re-election as an independent.

In the meantime, the race for Menendez's Senate seat is already active, with New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy and U.S. Representative Andy Kim among the Democrats vying to replace him. The filing deadline for the Democratic primary is March 25, by which candidates must submit 1,000 signatures to file their nominating petitions. Menendez has not participated in recent Democratic county conventions or a Democratic Senate debate, indicating his withdrawal from the primary process.