"Menendez's Bribery Charges Spark Democratic Divisions and Calls for Resignation"

Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey and his wife, Nadine, have pleaded not guilty to bribery charges in a yearslong corruption scheme. Prosecutors allege that Menendez accepted bribes, including cash, gold bullion, and a luxury car, in exchange for directing federal aid and weapons sales to Egypt. Three New Jersey businessmen were also charged in the scheme. Menendez, a powerful Democrat, has rejected calls to step down and maintains his innocence. The case involves allegations of strong-arming prosecutors and influencing criminal investigations.