"Judge Denies Menendez's Motion to Dismiss Bribery Charges, Senator Considers Independent Re-election Bid"

A Manhattan judge denied Sen. Bob Menendez's motion to dismiss federal bribery and extortion charges, ruling that the allegations cover conduct beyond "legislative acts" and lack legal protections. Menendez, his wife, and three businessmen were indicted as part of a bribery scheme, with the indictment being updated with additional charges alleging he acted as a foreign agent and accepted gifts. Menendez has pleaded not guilty and could appeal the decision, potentially delaying his trial scheduled for May 6. He also faces a separate motion to dismiss charges based on other grounds, and has faced calls for resignation, which he has rejected.