Photographs of the objects for which he is accused of receiving as “gifts” Robert Menendez released by the US Attorney’s Office.

The prosecutor presented gold bars, cash and a luxury car.

Shortly after, Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips was the first to publicly call on Menendez to step down.

The Senator and his 57-year-old wife, Nadine, are facing the following charges:

– conspiracy to commit bribery
– conspiracy to commit fraud and
– conspiracy to commit extortion

Robert Menendez will appear in court Wednesday morning. According to the indictment, he faces from 5 to 20 years in prison.

Senator Menendez is stepping down as chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee

Meanwhile, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer announced that Bob Menendez is temporarily stepping down as chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee following allegations that he and his wife were bribed by three New Jersey businessmen.

In his announcement, Schumer said Menendez, who has not indicated he will resign his Senate seat, is entitled to due process and a fair trial. He added that Menendez would step down as chairman of the Commission “until the matter is resolved”.