The trial of Senator Bob Menendez has entered its sixth week, with prosecutors using the testimony of his former campaign manager to make connections between alleged bribes and the appointment of New Jersey’s top prosecutor three years ago. Michael Soliman, a former top Menendez political adviser, took the stand following New Jersey’s U.S. attorney, Philip Sellinger, who had testified for two days.
Menendez, along with two New Jersey businessmen, is facing charges of accepting bribes in the form of gold bars, cash, and a luxury car in exchange for helping the businessmen in their business dealings, which included attempts to influence court cases. The senator and the businessmen have pleaded not guilty, while a third businessman who pleaded guilty testified against them. Menendez’s wife, Nadine Menendez, has also pleaded not guilty but her trial has been postponed due to her breast cancer diagnosis.
Sellinger testified that Menendez had asked him to be appointed as New Jersey’s top federal prosecutor and to look into a criminal case involving Fred Daibes, a real estate developer. However, Sellinger had to recuse himself from the case due to a conflict of interest. Menendez then recommended another candidate for the position, but the appointment fell through after negative news articles. Sellinger later informed Menendez that he could proceed with the case without recusal.
During his testimony, Soliman revealed that Menendez and Sellinger had a falling out, leading to the appointment of a different candidate for the prosecutor role. Despite the confusion surrounding the issue of recusal, Menendez did not question or express any concerns about the situation. Sellinger, who is not facing any charges, was appointed as U.S. attorney in 2021 and still holds the position.
Sellinger’s testimony portrayed Menendez in a favorable light, with the U.S. attorney stating that he never believed the senator had asked him to do anything improper or unethical. Menendez appeared optimistic after Sellinger’s testimony, emphasizing that he had not been involved in any wrongdoing. The trial faced a delay when Daibes, one of the co-defendants, contracted COVID-19, pushing the proceedings into July.
As the trial continues, Menendez maintains his innocence, supported by Sellinger’s testimony. The case has drawn significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendants and the allegations against them. The prosecution will continue to present evidence and call witnesses to establish the charges against Menendez and the other defendants. Stay tuned for further updates on this ongoing trial as it unfolds in the Manhattan federal court.
