'The GOP is salivating': Republicans hope failure to fire Bob Menendez could flip NJ

Recently indicted New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez (D) is creating a big headache for Democrats who want to keep the Senate – but are avoiding direct action to make him go away, according to a report from Politico.

“I think he should resign,” said Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH). “I’m not dogging him or doing anything else. I hope he doesn’t run, but if he does run, it’s his choice. And I think he will lose.”

Many Senate Democrats who have called for Menendez to step down have not voiced support for a primary challenger. They also haven't voiced strong opposition to Menendez' suggestion of a 2024 bid.

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"The relative silence on Menendez suggests that Democrats, despite the fallout caused by the New Jersey senator’s indictment, don’t see the merit in duking it out with their longtime colleague," wrote Politico. Menendez was accused last month of taking bribes.

"While the cascade of resignation calls against former Sen. Al Franken over sexual misconduct allegations prompted him to announce his resignation in 2017, Menendez has made it clear it’ll take more of a fight to push him out," Politico's report stated. "With the House gripped by Republican chaos, Democratic senators want to keep drama in their own chamber to a minimum."

When asked by Politico if he's planning a run for the White House, he replied, “I don’t have to answer to you people ... I will tell the people of New Jersey when I’m ready.”

The Republicans haven't won a Senate race in New Jersey since 1972, Politico reported. But now they think they have a chance.

"The GOP is salivating," it reported.

Read the full report at Politico.