Sen. Robert Menendez is defending his reputation following allegations of an investigation into possible corruption.

The Wall Street Journal reports that the Justice Department is almost ready to move forward with charges connected to Sen. Menendez's relationship with a Florida eye doctor and campaign contributor. The report sourced "unnamed" people close to the investigation.

The senator held an event Monday at a pen factory in Garwood to announce a new program to promote companies that support American workers. It was there that he addressed the reports.

"I'll say the same thing I said two weeks ago when there was a different press report, and that is I have always acted appropriately and legally," the senator said.

He also pointed out that so far, no one has been able to put a name to the rumors.

"Leaks are in violation of the law. All of us who care about justice and the law should be concerned about where those leaks come from," he said.

Sen. Menendez said he would be ready to respond to any charges should the need arise. He would not comment on the theory that the investigation is political payback for his opposition to the Obama administration's foreign policy plans in Iran and Cuba.