Menendez was almost definitely innocent given the high standard for bribery set in McConnell. Cynically, I only see this as good for Republicans – he is easily the weakest Democrat who could run for his seat in 2018. His defense was essentially "it's not bribery, just favoritism for a wealthy friend." Keeping him out of prison and on the ballot is terrible for Democrats.
The seat is still Solid D, especially if he loses to a primary challenger like Wisniewski, but at least this keeps it in long shot territory with the right candidate.
I think you mean "not guilty."
