U.S. Senator Robert Menendez said on Wednesday he will temporarily step aside as ranking member, or top Democrat, on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in the wake of his indictment on corruption charges, Reuters reported.
"I believe it is in the best interests of the committee, my colleagues, and the Senate, which is why I have chosen to do so," he said in a letter to Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid.
Aides said that Maryland Senator Benjamin Cardin, one of the most senior Democrats on the influential panel, would step in as ranking member.
This senator is known for his pro-Armenian position and unfounded criticism in relation to Azerbaijan.