It’s a case that could only be overshadowed by the hush-money trial of former President Donald Trump unfolding just across the street: An influential lawmaker accused of working the levers of power in Washington on behalf of foreign governments and New Jersey businessmen, who allegedly lavished him with gold bars and other bribes.

The trial of the once-powerful New Jersey senator is set to begin Monday. He’s accused of bribery, obstruction of justice and extortion — but may blame his wife.

For the second time in a decade, Sen. Bob Menendez is finding his political career and freedom on the line in a federal criminal case that already has forced him out of one of the Senate's most powerful posts.

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