Robert Menendez Jr. Announces Congressional Run

Son of Embattled Senator Seeks to Continue Family Legacy

Rob Menendez, the 36-year-old son of New Jersey's senior United States senator, has announced his candidacy for Congress.

Menendez Jr. made the announcement on Monday, stating his intention to run for the Democratic nomination in the 8th congressional district, currently held by Democratic incumbent Albio Sires. The younger Menendez has been a lawyer and a public policy advisor in the past, and his father has served as a senator for New Jersey since 2006.

The announcement of Menendez Jr.'s candidacy comes amidst ongoing federal bribery charges against his father, Senator Bob Menendez. The senator has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is scheduled to stand trial in September. Despite the controversy surrounding his father, Menendez Jr. has expressed confidence in his own campaign.

In a statement, Menendez Jr. said, "I'm running for Congress because I believe we need new leadership in Washington that will fight for working families, protect our middle class, and stand up for the values that make our country great." He added, "I'm proud of my father's record of service to New Jersey, and I'm confident that I can continue his legacy of fighting for our communities."