Menendez Allies Launch PR Blitz

Allies of Sen. Bob Menendez, slapped this week with federal corruption charges, have launched a public-relations campaign to support him through what’s likely to be a long and expensive legal fight. The New Jersey Democrat pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges that he accepted nearly $1 million in gifts and campaign contributions from a longtime friend in exchange for a stream of political favors. His supporters have been working behind the scenes since news reports emerged in March suggesting an indictment was imminent. The camapaign became apparent beginning Wednesday, when supporting statements began pouring into reporters’ inboxes shortly after the 14-count indictment was filed.