Following the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) formally filing criminal corruption charges against U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., lawmakers from local and federal levels have reiterated their support for the New Jersey Democrat.

As Latin Post reported, the DOJ indicted Menendez and ophthalmologist Salomon Melgen on criminal corruption charges that claimed the senator committed bribery and honest services wire fraud, violated travel laws and issued false statements.

Menendez declared his innocence during a press conference on Wednesday evening, stating, "I'm angry and ready to fight because today contradicts my public service career and my entire life. I'm angry because prosecutors at the Justice Department don't know the difference between friendship and corruption and have chosen to twist my duties as a Senator -- and as a friend -- into something improper. They're dead wrong, and I'm confident they will be proven so."

Menendez said the DOJ was "tricked" into conducting the investigation by people with a political motive to silence him. He added, "I'm confident -- at the end of the day -- I will be vindicated and they will be exposed."

Before and after the press conference, support for Menendez flowed in.

Fellow New Jersey Democratic Sen. Cory Booker issued a statement. It read, "Sen. Menendez has never wavered in his commitment to the people of New Jersey. He's been an invaluable resource and a mentor to me since I arrived in the Senate. Our system of justice is designed to be fair and impartial, and it presumes innocence before guilt. I won't waiver in my commitment to stand alongside my senior senator to serve our great state. Our nation and state face critical issues, and I will continue to partner with Sen. Menendez to take on the challenges before us."

U.S. Rep. Albio Sires, D-N.J., acknowledged the work he has had with Menendez to improve the lives of their constituents. He added, "All Americans, not just Sen. Menendez, are entitled to a presumption of innocence. These charges are just an accusation. My friend, Bob Menendez is not going anywhere. I know that he will get through this and nothing will distract him from doing what he does best, fighting for New Jersey."

U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., issued a statement about Menendez's work including Hurricane Sandy relief, opposing offshore drilling and college affordability. Pallone said he will continue to work with Menendez. U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, D-N.J., said he also stands with Menendez as he maintains his innocence.

U.S. Rep Tony Cardenas, D-Calif., wrote, "As his friend &his colleague, I believe in Sen. Bob Menendez, I support him and will continue to do so."

U.S. Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill., said, "Bob Menendez has never given me any reason to question his integrity, his dedication to honest public service or his commitment to the American people. As a leader in the House and in the Senate, he has been a key ally in fighting for sensible immigration reform and a touchstone for all matters related to Latinos in this country. He is a friend who is quick with advice, encouragement and good ideas. I am particularly proud of his leadership on foreign policy matters related to Latin America. My hope is that these legal matters are resolved quickly so he can go back to concentrating 100 percent on his service to the people of New Jersey and the United States."

A website and Twitter account has been created to support Menendez with the name "I Stand With Bob." The website includes frequently asked questions including "What does it mean to be indicted?" and if Menendez is required to step down. The website also provides a synopsis of how the story leading up to the DOJ's indictment started.

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For the latest updates, follow Latin Post's Michael Oleaga on Twitter:@EditorMikeO or contact via email: m.oleaga@latinpost.com.

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