WASHINGTON — New Jersey Democrats lined up behind Sen. Bob Menendez on Wednesday after federal prosecutors accused him of participating in a bribery scheme with a wealthy donor.
The state's Democratic committee released statements from several New Jersey lawmakers and officials and started a Twitter account — @IStandWithBob — and an identical hashtag to highlight support for Menendez.
Several lawmakers advised reserving judgment until the federal case is adjudicated.
"Our system of justice is designed to be fair and impartial, and it presumes innocence before guilt," said Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., calling Menendez an "invaluable resource and mentor." "I won't waver in my commitment to stand alongside my senior senator to serve our great state."
Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., called Menendez "a tireless and effective public servant."
"I have worked with Bob throughout his tenure in the House and the Senate on countless issues of importance to New Jersey, including (Superstorm) Sandy relief, opposing offshore drilling, and fighting for college affordability, and look forward to continuing to do so," he said.
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But watchdog groups and Republicans focused on the seriousness of the allegations.
Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), which filed a complaint with the Justice Department in 2012 seeking an investigation into Menendez's conduct, called for Menendez to immediately step down as top-ranking Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
On Wednesday, Menendez said he told Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid he would temporarily step down from the position.
"Sen. Menendez deserves a fair trial, but it is not appropriate for him to retain his powerful position within the Congress in light of the allegations against him, some of which could implicate foreign relations," said CREW Executive Director Noah Bookbinder.
The National Republican Senatorial Committee said Wednesday's indictment shows Menendez "has betrayed the trust of New Jersey families."
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Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker of Tennessee expressed appreciation for Menendez's work on foreign relations issues and said he expects Menendez "will continue to play a constructive role."
Though accusations have long swirled around Menendez, he has maintained a 49 percent approval rating among New Jersey voters, said Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute.
More support came from longtime supporters in the Jewish community, who back Menendez's positions against a nuclear-capable Iran and his identification with Israel's security concerns.
"Sen. Menendez has stood up for victimized nations, persecuted minorities, and the least fortunate here at home," an American Jewish Committee statement reads. "He has been a strong and clear voice for the interests of New Jersey — and for principled U.S. leadership in international forums."
Rep. Luis V. Gutiérrez, D-Ill., highlighted Menendez's leadership on foreign policy matters related to Latin America.
"Bob Menendez has never given me any reason to question his integrity, his dedication to honest public service or his commitment to the American people," he said. "As a leader in the House and in the Senate, he has been a key ally in fighting for sensible immigration reform and a touchstone for all matters related to Latinos in this country. He is a friend who is quick with advice, encouragement and good ideas."
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