WASHINGTON — Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., will file Monday to run for re-election to the Senate as an independent, according to two sources with direct knowledge of his plans.

NBC News previously reported that the three-term senator had gathered enough signatures to run as an independent for another term in the Senate as he faces a trial on federal bribery charges. His filing comes one day before the state's deadline for independent candidates, allowing him to collect fewer signatures and still access the ballot; the deadline to run as a Democrat has already passed.

The New Jersey Globe first reported that Menendez plans to file Monday.

Menendez's decision to run for re-election allows him to continue raising and spending campaign funds on legal fees amid the ongoing corruption trial. Menendez has denied any wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty.

The allegations against Menendez include accepting bribes in the form of cash, gold bars, and other luxury items in exchange for political favors. These charges have cast a significant shadow over his political career, and the trial is expected to draw considerable public and media attention.

Menendez's decision to run as an independent is seen as a strategic move to maintain his political career and influence while addressing his legal challenges. Running as an independent allows him to bypass the Democratic primary process, which would likely be difficult given the controversy surrounding him.

Menendez's filing also comes on the eve of the state's primary, where Rep. Andy Kim is the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination for his seat. Kim has previously warned that a Menendez run as an independent could put the deep-blue state in play in November.

Kim, who has been critical of Menendez's legal troubles, has positioned himself as a candidate of integrity and reform. His campaign has focused on distancing himself from the scandal-plagued senator and appealing to voters who are weary of corruption.

Also on Tuesday, Democratic Rep. Rob Menendez, the senator's son, is facing a competitive race in the 8th District against Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla. The race has been heated, with both candidates vying for the support of local constituents.

A pro-Bhalla outside group called America’s Promise PAC has launched a TV ad tying Rob Menendez to his father’s trial, with a narrator saying: “They say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. So it’s no wonder that Rob Menendez is defending his father’s corruption,” later adding that the congressman is “rotten to the core.” (Rob Menendez has not been accused of any impropriety.)

The ad campaign has intensified the race, making it one of the most closely watched contests in the state. Rob Menendez has defended his record and distanced himself from his father's legal issues, emphasizing his own legislative achievements and commitment to serving his district.

The outcome of these elections will have significant implications for the political landscape in New Jersey. The Menendez family, once a powerful political dynasty in the state, faces unprecedented challenges that could reshape their influence and legacy.

As the trial and campaigns unfold, voters will be closely monitoring the developments, which will likely play a crucial role in their decision-making process come November. The next few months promise to be a turbulent and pivotal period in New Jersey politics. With high stakes, the unfolding political drama is sure to keep both constituents and political analysts on edge, setting the stage for a closely watched election season.