The governor of New Jersey, Phil Murphy, yesterday asked Senator Bob Menendez – who represents this American state in the US Senate – to resign because of the bribery charges he is facing.

“The allegations in the indictment against Senator Menendez and four others involved are deeply troubling,” he said in a statement.

“They are so serious that they are jeopardizing Senator Menendez’s ability to represent the people of our state,” says Phil Murphy, adding, “Therefore, I am calling for his immediate resignation.”

Earlier, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer announced that Sen. 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 — has a right to due process and a fair trial. He added that Menendez would step down as chairman of the Commission “until the matter is resolved”.