One of the most powerful politicians in Southern New Jersey pleaded not guilty to federal corruption charges. Senator Wayne Bryant is accused of using his clout as head of the Senate Budget Committee to steer millions in grants to two state schools that gave him no-show jobs. During a court hearing this morning in Trenton, Bryant pleaded not guilty to the fraud, bribery and pension-padding allegations. Also charged in the case is former UMDNJ Dean R. Michael Gallagher of Haddonfield. He also entered a not guilty plea Monday, as expected. U.S. Attorney Christopher Christie alleges Bryant and Gallagher both gained financially from their relationship with the school.