Former Senator Bob Menendez has not been ruled out for a pardon or sentence commutation by President Donald Trump, although sources close to the matter indicate that the chances of clemency before Menendez’s upcoming prison reporting date are slim. Menendez allies have communicated multiple requests to the Trump administration since he took office concerning Menendez’s 11-year prison sentence after his bribery and corruption conviction. While optimism diminished following interactions with the White House, an official affirmed that Trump has yet to make a final decision.
Earlier this year, Menendez sought assistance from Senate colleague Sen. Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, to advocate for his clemency, but Graham opted not to engage. Additionally, Menendez has sought help through connections with Jewish leaders due to his strong support for Israel during his political career. He even approached the family of Jared Kushner for assistance but was unsuccessful.
Menendez sought clemency from President Joe Biden earlier this year but to no avail. He was indicted and later convicted on federal bribery charges, leading to his resignation from the Senate. His wife, Nadine Menendez, faced similar convictions. He argues that his legal challenges stem from political targeting, notably claiming that after opposing the Iran deal, he faced indictment—a sentiment he reiterated on social media.
Despite these efforts, Menendez does not share a close relationship with Trump and has previously been adversarial, voting to convict Trump during both impeachment trials. This history is believed to impact Menendez’s chances for receiving a pardon.
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