Senator Menendez’s Spouse Receiving Treatment for Breast Cancer

Senator Bob Menendez’s wife, Nadine, is currently receiving treatment for breast cancer and is scheduled to undergo a mastectomy, as announced by the senator’s office on Thursday.

Menendez, aged 70, disclosed his wife’s cancer diagnosis in a statement released while he was in Federal District Court in Manhattan. The veteran New Jersey Democratic senator is facing charges of accepting bribes in return for political favors.

“We are naturally concerned about the severity and advanced stage of the illness,” said Bob Menendez. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her for a successful outcome.”

The announcement, reported by The New York Times, came shortly after the senator’s legal team informed the jury that Nadine Menendez, aged 57, played a significant role in the alleged bribery scheme involving gold bars and other luxurious gifts from New Jersey businessmen and foreign governments.

Menendez described his wife’s cancer as “grade 3” and shared the information in response to media inquiries and intrusion into her privacy. He requested respect for their privacy during this challenging time.

Following the mastectomy, Nadine Menendez may require additional surgery and potentially radiation treatment, according to Menendez.

Initially set to stand trial alongside her husband and two others this week, Nadine Menendez received a delay and a separate trial starting in July due to her medical condition, as granted by Judge Sidney Stein.

Prior to the public announcement, details of her diagnosis were disclosed only to Judge Stein, leading to speculation in political circles in New Jersey.

The couple is accused of receiving cash, gold bars, a car, and other gifts in exchange for political favors and acting as foreign agents for Egypt and Qatar, as well as New Jersey businessmen.

Since his indictment in September 2023, Menendez has faced declining support, stepped down from his committee chairmanship, and announced he will not seek reelection as a Democrat, leaving open the possibility of an independent run.

Several colleagues, including fellow New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker, have called for Menendez’s resignation.

The trial, which started on Monday, is expected to last up to two months, as reported by the Associated Press.

Both Menendez and his wife have pleaded not guilty.