Washington — Prosecutors trying to prove that New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez wielded his political influence in exchange for bribes cannot show jurors evidence that they argue is "critical" to their case, a federal judge ruled Friday.
The text included a link about two pending foreign military sales to Egypt, according to prosecutors.
But Stein determined the Constitution's "speech or debate" clause, which protects lawmakers against prosecution over official legislative acts, applied to the evidence.
Such an interpretation would prohibit "some of the core most critical evidence," Monteleoni countered.
While the decision could complicate prosecutors' case against Menendez as it relates to Egypt and military aid, the senator is also facing a slew of other charges.

Prosecutors in Bob Menendez trial can't use evidence they say is critical to case, judge rules