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By Matthew Impelli
Life & Trends Reporter
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New Jersey Democratic Senator Bob Menendez is set to resign next month after he was found guilty in a federal bribery trial.
Menendez is set to announce his resignation on August 20, the Associated Press reported on Tuesday, citing a person with knowledge of the situation.
Last week, a jury in New York reached a guilty verdict after three days of deliberation in Menendez's federal bribery trial. Menendez and his co-defendants were found guilty on all 16 charges, including bribery, conspiracy, fraud and making false statements.
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During the nine-week trial, prosecutors said that Menendez "put his power up for sale" by performing political favors in exchange for lavish gifts, such as cash, gold bars, a Mercedes-Benz convertible, furniture and payments on a home mortgage.
Following the verdict, a number of lawmakers called on the New Jersey senator to resign from his seat.
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New Jersey Democratic Governor Phil Murphy called for his resignation or for the Senate to expel Menendez, saying that he would "make a temporary appointment to ensure the people of New Jersey have the representation they deserve."
Several New Jersey Democrats told Politico this week that Democratic Representative Andy Kim could be a possible replacement for Menendez.
New Jersey Democratic State Senator Vin Gopal told the outlet that Murphy "should appoint Andy Kim for seniority."
"Andy Kim won the Democratic primary with almost 80 percent of the vote. So he's the overwhelming choice of registered Democrats in the state," Gopal said.
Other prominent names include New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin, Garden State Equality Executive Director Christian Fuscarino, Loretta Weinberg, a well-respected figure in New Jersey's progressive community, political insider Jeannine LaRue, and Dianne Houenou, chair of New Jersey's Cannabis Regulatory Commission.
Platkin, a trusted advisor to Murphy, would allow the New Jersey governor to fill the attorney general position with another of his choosing, thus strengthening his influence over state politics.
Fuscarino has been a staunch supporter of Murphy and could become the first openly gay U.S. senator if appointed. Murphy has shown a penchant for making historic appointments, which adds weight to Fuscarino's candidacy.
LaRue is a close ally of both Governor Murphy and his wife and has significant experience in New Jersey politics, which could make her a strong candidate for the interim position.
Weinberg's extensive political experience and progressive credentials make her a viable candidate, although some consider her outspoken nature a possible hindrance to her selection.
Houenou is known for her ethical standards and advocacy for marginalized communities. Her reputation for integrity and effective leadership could make her an attractive choice for the interim Senate seat.
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