NJ Senator Menendez doubles down on staying in role 

(Washington, DC) --  New Jersey Senior Senator Bob Menendez is doubling down on his refusal to resign amid his legal troubles.

He met with the Democratic Senate Caucus for a closed lunch on Thursday, one day after appearing in Manhattan federal court for corruption and bribery charges.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer from New York reportedly didn't say anything during the meeting.

While exiting the lunch Menendez told reporters he will continue to cast votes on behalf of the people of New Jersey as he has done for 18 years.