In an unexpected twist, US attorney Philip Sellinger testified at Senator Bob Menendez’s corruption trial, providing a lifeline for the New Jersey Democrat. Sellinger told the court that Menendez never pressured him to act improperly on behalf of a political ally, Fred Daibes. Sellinger recounted a conversation with Menendez in late 2020, where the senator expressed concern that Daibes was being treated unfairly by prosecutors. However, Sellinger emphasized that he did not believe Menendez was asking him to do anything other than his official duty.
The trial, now in its sixth week, has shifted its focus to allegations that Menendez, along with his wife Nadine, were involved in a corrupt deal with Daibes and the government of Qatar, rather than accepting bribes from a New Jersey businessman as previously claimed. The trial resumed after a three-day delay due to Daibes testing positive for Covid-19.
Sellinger’s testimony shed light on Menendez’s push for an alternative US attorney nomination after Sellinger initially was not recommended. Menendez eventually recommended Esther Suarez, then-Hudson County Prosecutor, but faced backlash due to Suarez’s handling of a rape accusation against a Murphy staffer. After Suarez’s nomination fell through, Menendez recommended Sellinger for the US attorney post, a position he took in December 2021. However, Sellinger recused himself from the Daibes case, prompting confusion from Menendez.
Despite their strained relationship, Menendez rejected an invitation to Sellinger’s investiture ceremony, expressing concern about the perception of their relationship. Prosecutors plan to rest their case on June 25, with defense lawyers aiming to conclude their case by the week of July 8. The trial will resume on Thursday after a break for the Juneteenth holiday.
