Overview

• Sen. Bob Menendez, facing new federal corruption charges, will not run in the New Jersey Democratic primary but may run as an independent in November.
• The charges against Menendez and his wife include bribery, obstruction of justice, and aiding foreign governments, with allegations of accepting bribes in cash, gold bars, and a luxury car.
• Menendez maintains his innocence and hopes for exoneration this summer, which would enable his independent candidacy in the general election.
• The race for Menendez's Senate seat heats up with notable contenders Tammy Murphy and Rep. Andy Kim, both campaigning vigorously across New Jersey.
• Menendez's potential independent run adds uncertainty to the election, with implications for Democratic control of the Senate and the balance of power.