New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has appointed his former chief of staff, George Helmy, to temporarily replace convicted U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez until the winner of the November election is certified and sworn in. The race for the Senate seat is between Democratic Rep. Andy Kim and Republican Curtis Bashaw. Murphy spoke to both candidates about his plans and emphasized the importance of a smooth transition for the elected winner to represent the people of New Jersey effectively. Helmy, who has experience working for Senator Cory Booker and former Senator Frank Lautenberg, will take over after Menendez’s resignation on August 20.
Democrats are holding onto a narrow majority in the Senate, making the stakes in the New Jersey Senate election high. Republicans have not won a Senate election in the Democratic-leaning state in over five decades. Murphy’s decision to appoint Helmy instead of Kim, who is in a strong position in the November election, has raised some questions. However, Murphy clarified that there is no personal conflict between him and Kim, and he chose Helmy based on his qualifications and experience. Helmy, who has previously served as Murphy’s chief of staff and holds an executive position at RWJBarnabas Health, expressed his commitment to serving the public during his short stint in the Senate.
Menendez was convicted last month on charges of using his office to benefit businessmen in exchange for bribes. Prosecutors claimed that he intervened in state and federal investigations to protect these businessmen, as well as took actions to benefit Egypt’s government in exchange for bribes. Menendez denied all allegations and expressed his intention to appeal the conviction. His resignation on August 20 will lead to the appointment of Helmy as the interim Senator until the winner of the November election is certified. Menendez’s decision to step down came after pressure from fellow Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Governor Murphy had called for his expulsion if he did not resign.
The upcoming election on November 5 will determine the permanent replacement for Menendez in the Senate. The certification of the election results is scheduled for November 27, allowing for a smooth transition of power once the winner is officially declared. The appointment of Helmy as the temporary replacement highlights Murphy’s commitment to upholding the integrity of public office and ensuring that New Jersey is represented by individuals who are worthy of high office. As the state prepares for a new Senator, the focus remains on the importance of selecting a representative who will serve the best interests of the people of New Jersey in the United States Senate.
