Jury selection has begun in the federal bribery trial of Nadine Menendez, wife of former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, in New York City. The process is expected to involve approximately 200 potential jurors over the next few days, with the trial anticipated to last at least nine weeks once proceedings commence.
Nadine Menendez, 58, faces charges of conspiracy to commit bribery, fraud, and extortion. Prosecutors allege that she and her husband accepted substantial bribes, including gold bars, cash, and a luxury Mercedes-Benz, from New Jersey businessmen in exchange for political favors. These favors purportedly included influencing U.S. policy to benefit foreign governments, notably Egypt and Qatar.
The trial was initially postponed due to Nadine Menendez’s treatment for advanced-stage breast cancer. Her husband, Bob Menendez, was convicted in July 2024 on 16 federal charges, including bribery, extortion, and acting as an unregistered foreign agent. He was subsequently sentenced to 11 years in prison in January 2025.
Bob Menendez has continued to deny any wrongdoing, calling the prosecution “inhumane and arrogant,” particularly in light of his wife’s recent reconstructive surgery following cancer treatment. Legal experts suggest that Nadine Menendez’s trial could shed further light on the depth of the bribery allegations and whether she played a direct role in the scheme or was manipulated by her husband and his associates.
The case has drawn national attention as one of the most significant corruption trials in recent political history. With jury selection underway, the trial’s outcome could have lasting implications on how political corruption is prosecuted at the federal level.
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