Foto: Brendan O'Hara
Robert Jacobsen Menéndez Jr., or Rob Menéndez, is an American lawyer and politician, whose political career began to take off in 2023 when he took office as the U.S. representative in New Jersey's 8th congressional district. The son of influential Senator Bob Menéndez, Rob Menéndez has his roots in Union City, New Jersey, where he was raised. His Cuban-American ancestry, stemming from paternal grandparents who fled the regime of Fulgencio Batista in 1953, adds a personal dimension to his political identity.
His education included public schools in Union City, followed by The Hudson School in Hoboken, where he completed his high school education. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and his Juris Doctor from Rutgers Law School. During his studies, he excelled as a student leader and received recognition for his academic and leadership engagement.
Prior to entering politics, Rob Menéndez worked as an attorney at Lowenstein Sandler LLP. His political career began in 2021 when he was appointed commissioner of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey by Governor Phil Murphy. His tenure at the Port Authority was marked by his involvement in governance and ethics issues, as well as his role in overseeing the Authority's budget.
In 2023, he announced his candidacy for New Jersey's 8th congressional district, succeeding Representative Albio Sires. His campaign emphasized issues that affect working- and middle-class families, such as housing, health care, education, and workers' rights. He also expressed support for investments in infrastructure, gun control, and reproductive choice.
Rob Menéndez's primary and general election were significant successes, cementing his position as a representative of the 8th congressional district. His rise in politics continued when he was elected by the freshman Democratic members to serve on the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee, as well as being appointed Regional Whip, responsible for helping with the party's voting operation.
Outside of politics, Rob Menéndez is a familiar figure in Jersey City, where he resides with his wife, Alex Banfich Menéndez, and their two children. His vote on issues such as the expulsion of members of Congress demonstrates a commitment to integrity and political accountability. His journey so far reflects not only his family and educational backgrounds, but also his commitment to representing the interests of his community and his country.
