Approval ratings for Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) have dropped in the middle of a federal investigation into him and his wife receiving unreported gifts.

The New Jersey Democrat received a negative 35% approval and 44% disapproval rating from the latest Monmouth University Poll. Six in 10 state residents believe the current investigation into Menendez either somewhat or greatly affects his ability to serve.

FULTON OR FEDERAL? TRUMP INDICTMENT POISED TO SET OFF COURT VENUE DISPUTE

However, only 19% of Democrats believe the investigation affects Menendez’s serving capabilities, compared to 36% of Republicans.

The Department of Justice launched a criminal investigation into Menendez and his wife in May, questioning where a Mercedes-Benz, a luxury Washington, D.C., apartment, jewelry, and other assets came from.

A spokesperson for Menendez told NJ Spotlight News this week that the senator is “not distracted by politically-motivated smear campaigns and is focused on his work in Washington and at home in New Jersey.”

Menendez is seeking his fourth term in the upper chamber of Congress in 2024.

This is not the first time Menendez has been under the spotlight for similar accusations. In 2015, Menendez was indicted on charges of accepting luxury vacations and gifts, as well as campaign donations from Dr. Salomon Melgen, who has since been charged in a separate fraud case. In 2018, a verdict was unable to be met, leading a federal judge to deem a mistrial.

The DOJ then dismissed all charges against Melgen and Menendez, according to the New York Times.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

“The current poll results suggest news of a new federal probe is having an impact on that opinion, perhaps even more so than the last time he faced similar scrutiny,” Patrick Murray, director of the independent Monmouth University Polling Institute, said.

Throughout his previous ethical battles, Menendez held a higher approval rating compared to the most recent investigation. In 2015 he had a 42% approval and 38% disapproval rating, and in 2018 he had a 37% approval and 38% disapproval rating.

The Washington Examiner reached out to Menendez's office for comment.