Hudson County Democratic Organization Chairman Releases Statement on Menendez Indictment

JERSEY CITY, N.J. — Hudson County Democratic Organization Chairman Anthony P. Vainieri, Jr., is releasing the following statement:

“This past week has been a painful, difficult time for Senator Menendez as well as his family, friends, fellow elected officials and constituents, especially here in Hudson County where he started his career in public service. In an effort to give Senator Menendez an opportunity to speak out on these troublesome accusations, and in recognition of his five decades of service during which the Senator has consistently delivered for our residents, the Hudson County Democratic Organization has not commented on the indictment against him and has declined to either join calls for his resignation or offer support.

Senator Menendez will have to make his own choice on whether or not he can continue to effectively carry out the duties of his office while working to clear his name, and I trust that he will come to a resolution that is right for the people of New Jersey. I understand the opinion of Democratic leaders from throughout the state and the nation who have weighed in thus far on that important question.

Our party has been and will continue to be focused on the critical upcoming elections for state, county and local office in November, but we cannot ignore the new political reality that this indictment has caused. We will continue to make decisions that are in Hudson County’s best interests now and in next year’s elections.”