Senator Bob Menendez, a prominent New Jersey Democrat, faces federal corruption charges for the second time in eight years.
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The indictment accuses Menendez and his wife of accepting bribes, including cash, gold, mortgage payments, and a Mercedes-Benz, alleging he used his foreign affairs influence for personal gain.
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Menendez gained notoriety early in his career when, as a young lawyer, he wore a bullet-proof vest while testifying against mob figures and corrupt city officials in a New Jersey case.
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Born in New York City to Cuban immigrant parents, Menendez grew up in Union City, New Jersey, and began his political career on the Union City Board of Education.
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He testified against mob figures and Union City Mayor William Musto, wearing a bullet-proof vest for protection during the trial.
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Menendez progressed through state politics, served in the U.S. House, and became the second Cuban-American senator in 2006.
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He developed a reputation for hawkish foreign policy, advocating for human rights in Cuba, and criticizing Iran's nuclear ambitions.
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Menendez was previously indicted in 2015 on charges of using political influence to benefit a Florida eye doctor who provided gifts and campaign contributions.
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The senator was also linked to Ecuadorean bankers convicted of embezzlement, though he denied any wrongdoing and was not charged in the case.
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Menendez's career has been marked by both influential foreign policy positions and allegations of corruption, making him a polarizing figure in U.S. politics.
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