In a stunning blow to the Democratic establishment in New Jersey, Senator Bob Menendez has been convicted on all 16 counts in his federal corruption trial. The jury found him guilty of charges including bribery, extortion, wire fraud, obstruction of justice, and acting as a foreign agent. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer wasted no time in calling for Menendez's resignation.

Menendez, a prominent figure in state politics, now faces significant prison time and further scrutiny over his use of power as the former chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee. Despite maintaining his innocence, Menendez expressed deep disappointment with the jury's decision and vowed to appeal.

The senator's conviction is seen as a stain on the Democratic Party's national brand, particularly in light of a separate racketeering indictment against longtime state powerbroker George Norcross. Even before the trial, Menendez's case ignited discontent among rank-and-file Democrats, who criticized the state party machine that had long dominated politics in New Jersey.

The verdict also raises questions about the upcoming Senate race in New Jersey. Should Menendez choose to remain in the race as an independent candidate, it could potentially split the Democratic vote and open a path for Republican nominee Curtis Bashaw. Democrats are determined to avoid such a scenario, given the challenges they already face in defending their narrow majority.

The prosecution successfully argued that Menendez had used his position to advance Egyptian military interests, interfere in criminal prosecutions, and secure investments from Qatari officials, among other illicit activities. Prosecutors presented evidence of bribes received by Menendez and his wife, Nadine Menendez, which allegedly included gold bars, hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, and a luxury car.

While Nadine Menendez was also charged in the case, her trial was postponed indefinitely due to her breast cancer diagnosis. She has pleaded not guilty. If sentenced consecutively, Menendez could face a maximum of 222 years in prison, but it is expected that any sentences would run concurrently.

Sentencing is scheduled for October 29, just a week before Election Day. Calls for Menendez's resignation have come from various quarters, including Governor Phil Murphy and Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey, both Democrats. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin and many Democrats on Capitol Hill have also joined in urging Menendez to step down. However, removing him from office would require a two-thirds vote in the Senate.

Menendez's co-defendants, businessmen Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, were also found guilty on all charges related to the bribery scheme. Prosecutors spent nearly seven weeks detailing the multiple corruption schemes involving the senator and his co-defendants.

The conviction of Senator Menendez has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, putting the spotlight on corruption within the state party machine and raising concerns about the Democratic Party's chances in the upcoming Senate race. As the sentencing date approaches, the future of Menendez's political career remains uncertain.