Payam Javan: U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, along with his wife and three co-defendants, is set to face trial on May 6 for bribery and corruption charges, as decided by a New York judge.

The Department of Justice revealed an ongoing investigation with the possibility of additional charges. The pre-trial proceedings are expected to extend over several months, during which prosecutors will share discovery items with the defense.

If the trial proceeds as scheduled, it will take place a month before New Jersey’s June 4 primary, where voters will determine Menendez’s re-election. All defendants, including Menendez, have pleaded not guilty. Menendez, in a recent press briefing, vehemently denied the allegations, expressing confidence in being exonerated.

The accusations involve the acceptance of bribes from three New Jersey associates and businessmen, as per court documents from September 21.