On Sunday, New Jersey Sen. George Helmy (D) revealed his intention to resign from his position, paving the way for Rep. Andy Kim (D-N.J.), the senator-elect, to assume the seat shortly before the new Congress begins.
This announcement came as no surprise, following New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy’s (D) appointment of Helmy to replace former Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), who stepped down in August after being convicted on various charges, including bribery and serving as a foreign agent.
Helmy’s role was always intended to be temporary until a candidate emerged victorious in the November Senate race for the upcoming term starting in January. With Helmy’s impending resignation, Murphy will have the opportunity to appoint Kim to complete the remainder of the term before he officially takes office for a full six-year term next month.
With Helmy’s departure, Gov. Murphy prepares to appoint Kim to complete the Senate term before he officially begins a six-year term in January
Kim is set to be sworn in on Monday.
In his resignation statement, Helmy expressed, “It is with a profound sense of gratitude and emotion that I announce my resignation as U.S. Senator for New Jersey. It has been the honor of a lifetime representing the people of New Jersey in the Senate, and I am eternally grateful to Governor Murphy for entrusting me with this responsibility.”
He highlighted his accomplishments during his brief tenure, which included introducing and co-sponsoring legislation focused on youth mental health and advocating for humanitarian assistance for civilians in the Middle East.
Helmy commended Kim, asserting that voters made the right choice and affirming Kim’s “dedication, character, and empathy” towards the residents of New Jersey. He mentioned that the two had collaborated closely in recent weeks to facilitate a seamless transition.
In response, Kim expressed his appreciation for Helmy’s service, noting it was characterized by “dedication and stability.” He remarked, “His tenure in the Senate was one of dedication and stability. He served the people of New Jersey well and drew attention to critical issues like the youth mental health crisis, an issue I plan to continue to focus on.”
Last month, Kim secured victory against Republican Curtis Bashaw in the Senate race. Murphy stated that he intends to ensure a smooth transition for Kim by appointing him early, following the state Board of Canvassers’ certification of the election results on Thursday and Helmy’s resignation soon thereafter.
Previously, Helmy served as Murphy’s chief of staff. He holds the distinction of being the first Coptic Christian senator and is currently the only Arab American in the Senate. In contrast, Kim will be recognized as the first Korean American to serve in the Senate.
