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Judge Orders Deadlocked Menendez Trial Jurors To Try Again

Jurors in the corruption trial of Sen. Bob Menendez told the judge they couldn't reach a unanimous verdict.
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The corruption trial of U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez has deadlocked, but the judge is still pushing for a verdict.

Jurors told the judge Monday they couldn't reach a unanimous verdict on whether Menendez was guilty. The judge ordered them to go home, "clear their heads" and continue deliberating Tuesday morning.

Menendez is facing 14 charges stemming from his friendship with Florida eye doctor Salomon Melgen. Melgen allegedly won political favors from Menendez in exchange for expensive gifts.

A former juror, who was excused from the jury for vacation, predicted the case would result in a mistrial. If that happens, the Department of Justice could refile the charges.

Menendez told reporters he hopes that "those who continue to believe in my innocence will stand strong." Several high-profile Democrats have declined to say whether they'll force him to stand down if he's convicted.