Former Senator Bob Menendez, who was recently sentenced to 11 years in prison for bribery, stunned the press with his remarks following the sentencing. Menendez, once a critic of former President Donald Trump, unexpectedly praised him, suggesting that the judicial system’s process is inherently political.
As reported, Menendez sobbed in court as he pleaded for leniency, but Judge Sidney Stein was unrelenting, sentencing him to 11 years. The judge criticized Menendez, describing him as having become a national punchline and a corrupt politician, contributing to the public’s cynicism towards elected officials.
Menendez, in response to the media outside the courtroom, stated, “President Trump was right. This process is political, and it’s corrupted to the core. I hope President Trump cleans up the cesspool and restores the integrity to the system.”
Some stunning remarks from Menendez outside court: “President Trump was right. This process is political, and it’s corrupted to the core. I hope President Trump cleans up the cesspool and restores the integrity to the system.” pic.twitter.com/woFgHgFGqM
— Molly Crane-Newman (@molcranenewman) January 29, 2025
This statement comes in stark contrast to Menendez’s previous stance against Trump, particularly during the former president’s impeachment trials. His comments have sparked a wave of speculation regarding his motivations, with some suggesting that Menendez might be seeking a pardon from Trump.
The sentencing follows a jury’s conviction of Menendez on bribery and corruption charges after a 9-week trial. In addition to the domestic bribery accusations, Menendez was also charged with acting as a foreign agent for Egypt, providing sensitive U.S. government information to aid the foreign government covertly.
The unexpected praise for Trump by Menendez has left many in the political and media circles bewildered, adding another layer to the already complex narrative surrounding both figures.