Amid federal probe, senator says he acted ‘in accordance with the law’

Published 3:10 pm Saturday, March 7, 2015

NEWARK, N.J.  — Amid a federal investigation, U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez insists he has always been honest in his more than 20 years in Congress and says he is “not going anywhere” even as a person familiar with the matter says he’s expected to face criminal charges soon.

The New Jersey Democrat has been dogged by questions about his relationship with a Florida doctor and political donor, whose office was raided by authorities two years ago. Now charges are expected to be filed against Menendez in the coming weeks, according to the person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the investigation is pending.

Attorney General Eric Holder declined to say whether he has authorized criminal charges against the senator.

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At a press conference Friday in his home state, Menendez spoke in English and Spanish, chopping his hand down for emphasis.

“Let me be very clear, I have always conducted myself appropriately and in accordance with the law,” he said. “Every action that I and my office have taken for the last 23 years that I have been privileged to be in the United States Congress has been based on pursuing the best policies for the people of New Jersey and this entire country.”