White House says Menendez indictment 'serious matter'
The White House has described the recent indictment of Senator Bob Menendez on graft charges as a 'serious matter,' while Senator Menendez himself has rejected calls to step down from his position.
Spokesman Karine Jean-Pierre addressed reporters, stating, 'We see this as a serious matter, I think. And we believe the senator stepping down from his chairmanship was obviously the right thing to do.'
Earlier on Monday, Senator Menendez steadfastly refused to heed calls from fellow Democrats to resign from Congress after being indicted for the second time last week.
Speaking to reporters in his home state of New Jersey, Menendez asserted his innocence, stating, 'Prosecutors get it wrong sometimes,' and emphasized that 'the court of public opinion is no substitute for our revered justice system.'
'I firmly believe that with all the facts are presented, not only will I be exonerated, but I still will be New Jersey's senior senator,' he stated.
Senator Menendez has been facing mounting calls for his resignation from federal office, including from fellow Democrats. He temporarily stepped aside from his role as chairman of the influential Foreign Relations Committee on Friday following the announcement of the charges.
A federal grand jury has issued a three-count indictment, charging Senator Menendez, his wife, and three others with conspiracy to commit bribery and conspiracy to commit honest services fraud. Additionally, the senator and his wife face charges of extortion.
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