Rep. Rob Menendez Stands By Biden: 'Productive Presidency'

HUDSON COUNTY, NJ — Rep. Rob Menendez Jr. on Wednesday rejected the calls for Pres. Joe Biden to abandon his re-election effort after his debate against former president Donald Trump last week.

Menendez pointed to Biden's record in office since his inauguration.

"This has been one of the most productive presidencies in American history," Menendez said in a statement. "The Biden Administration has delivered historic investments in our infrastructure – including the Gateway [train tunnel] Program – built back our economy, taken presidential action on gun violence prevention and environmental protections, and stood tall for working families and unions across the country.

"This stands in direct contrast to what we witnessed under the Trump presidency and the trauma he caused for so many of our communities. We need to remember those four years and what another Trump presidency would mean for all of us."

Trump's presidency ended with attempts by his followers to stop Vice President Mike Pence from certifying the election results by charging into the U.S. Capitol. Pence said he will not endorse Trump.

Menendez said, "He has made clear in his agenda and through Project 2025 that this harm to our democracy will only get worse if he is elected."

Project 2025 has been described by others as a plan to consolidate power under Trump and gut many longtime programs.

"We have a nominee today with a proven track record that any Democrat would be proud to run on," Menendez said. "Yes, I have heard the concerns that have been raised over the last several weeks, and I urge the Biden campaign to continue to be transparent with the American people in the coming days, weeks, and months to alleviate any concerns. But we must remain focused on the mission at hand, which is to not just beat Donald Trump in November but to ensure a future that is reflective of our American values. And that is exactly what we will do.”