Former U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez , a once-powerful New Jersey lawmaker currently in prison after being convicted on sweeping corruption charges, is now barred from holding public office again in the state.

That’s according to a new ruling from a state judge.

Menendez, 71, was found guilty last year of accepting bribes — including gold bars and cash — and acting as an agent of Egypt. He resigned from the Senate , was sentenced to 11 years in prison, and began serving in June.

On top of that, the state filed a lawsuit seeking to ban Menendez, a Democrat, from ever holding public office or any government job in New Jersey.

A judge in Mercer County agreed Friday.

“If Menendez applies for public office or employment or takes any steps to campaign, run for, or be appointed or el

See Full Page