Reaction to Menendez verdict pours in: ‘No one is above the law’

Political figures across the state reacted to the news that U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) was found guilty on all counts in his federal corruption trial Tuesday afternoon in Newark — a conviction that likely signals the end of the political career of one of the most powerful figures in New Jersey and the country.

Gov. Phil Murphy, a second-term Democrat:

“Today’s verdict finding Sen. Bob Menendez guilty on 16 counts demonstrates that the senator broke the law, violated the trust of his constituents and betrayed his oath of office. It also shows that in America, everyone — no matter how powerful — is accountable to our laws.

“Sen. Menendez received a fair trial and due process of law as he was entitled to under our Constitution. I want to thank all the public servants who play crucial roles in our criminal justice system, including our law enforcement officials, prosecutors, defense attorneys, jurors and judges. Their hard work ensured that these brazen crimes were proven beyond a reasonable doubt, and our nation is grateful for their service.”

Curtis Bashaw, Republican nominee for Menendez’s U.S. Senate seat:

“This is a sad day for New Jersey, but one that feels all too familiar. New Jersey families deserve better than the continued corruption and made-for-TV political scandals, courtesy of Bob Menendez and the Democratic machine.”

U.S. Rep. Andy Kim, a Democrat representing the 3rd District and the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate:

“This is a sad and somber day for New Jersey and our country. Our public servants should work for the people, and today we saw the people judge Sen. Menendez as guilty and unfit to serve. I called on Sen. Menendez to step down when these charges were first made public, and, now that he has been found guilty, I believe the only course of action for him is to resign his seat immediately. The people of New Jersey deserve better.”

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat representing the 11th District:

“This is a sad day for the Garden State. Following this extremely serious verdict, I once again call on Sen. Menendez to immediately resign and for his access to classified national security information to be revoked. If he refuses to resign from the Senate, he should be expelled. New Jersey deserves leadership that puts the people and our country first — not profit or self interest.”

Steve Fulop, mayor of Jersey City and Democratic candidate for governor:

“While our judicial system has made it more and more difficult to hold corrupt politicians accountable in recent years, today’s guilty verdict is a strong statement that reaffirms trust, and the credit goes to the Southern District for being undaunted in their prosecution. As we turn the page now, Bob Menendez‘s legacy is cemented as a permanent embarrassment to New Jersey as one of the most corrupt elected officials to ever serve in a state that has unfortunately had its share of bad actors. Menendez should resign today and allow us all to move forward.”

Sen. Anthony Bucco, New Jersey Senate Republican leader:

“Today’s verdict is a sad day for New Jersey, and I personally take no joy in the conviction of Bob Menendez. This outcome, however, underscores the importance of upholding the highest ethical standards in public service and is a stark reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their position or influence.”