Voters Want One Democrat Long Gone

A recent poll conducted by Monmouth University revealed that a significant majority of New Jersey voters are calling for the resignation of Democratic Senator Bob Menendez, who is currently entangled in federal bribery, fraud, and extortion charges. The survey, released on Thursday, indicates that 63% of respondents believe Menendez should step down from his position, while only 33% believe he should be allowed to remain in office. The remaining 4% expressed uncertainty on the matter.

This sentiment is echoed within the Democratic Party itself, where 59% of members expressed support for Menendez’s resignation. Menendez’s legal troubles stem from allegations made in September, where he and his wife, Nadine Menendez, pleaded not guilty to accusations of accepting bribes, including cash and gold bars, in exchange for leveraging his political influence to serve personal interests. Subsequently, in January, Menendez faced additional charges related to allegedly accepting luxury items in exchange for political favors, with a recent indictment also adding charges of conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstruction of justice against him and his wife.

The poll, conducted from February 29 to March 4, registered these sentiments prior to the announcement of the latest charges. Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute, remarked, “maybe the piles of gold bars is a little too much to comprehend. Or maybe it’s simply too many corrupt trials. In any event, New Jerseyans say they have had enough and it’s time for Menendez to go.”

Despite stepping down as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee following the initial charges in September, Menendez has remained steadfast in rejecting calls for his resignation. However, the poll indicates a widespread belief among residents that Menendez is likely guilty, with 75% expressing this sentiment.

Furthermore, Menendez’s job performance has garnered overwhelming disapproval, with 74% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction compared to only 16% who approve. Even within his own party, Menendez faces significant disapproval, with only 23% approval from Democratic voters.

These findings suggest a stark decline in support for Menendez compared to previous years, particularly in light of his previous legal troubles in 2015.