Bob Menendez may shift blame to his wife in bribery trial

New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez may blame his wife if he takes the stand during his bribery trial, according to newly-released court documents. The filings, released this week, show that the Democratic lawmaker could claim that Nadine Menendez was the one taking bribes from foreign government officials and that she was then hiding the truth from him, as he seeks to clear his name of allegations that he traded his political influence for cash, gold bars, and a luxury Mercedes.

Mr. Menendez’s lawyer added that, as part of his defense if he chooses to take the stand, he will testify about communications with his wife that prove he was unaware of any wrongdoing. The New Jersey Democrat’s possible defense strategy was filed under seal with a federal judge in January before being made public on Tuesday after several media outlets requested it be unsealed.

Mr. Menendez and his wife were charged in September with allegedly accepting gifts including cash, gold bars, and a luxury car in exchange for the use of the senator’s influence to enrich three New Jersey businessmen and benefit the Egyptian government. Prosecutors said businessman Wael Hana had arranged meetings between Mr. Menendez and Egyptian officials, who pressed the senator to sign off on military aid.

The senator and his wife were also accused of attempting to “cover-up” the bribery scheme by repaying more than $20,000 worth of bribe money under the guise of loans. The couple allegedly used that money to pay for a Mercedes-Benz and home mortgage payments.

Mr. and Ms. Menendez and the businessmen have all pleaded not guilty to the charges. Earlier this month, Judge Sidney Stein ordered separate trials for Mr. and Ms. Menendez amid news that she had fallen ill and would require surgery and weeks of recovery.