New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has selected his former chief of staff to temporarily fill the seat of convicted U.S. Senator Bob Menendez. The governor announced that the winner of the upcoming November election will be appointed as soon as the results are certified. Democratic Rep. Andy Kim and Republican Curtis Bashaw are vying for the Senate seat.
The governor's decision not to appoint Kim, who is a strong contender in the election, was made to ensure a smooth transition for the elected candidate. The stakes are high in this election, as Democrats hold a narrow majority in the Senate, and Republicans have not won a Senate seat in New Jersey for over five decades.
The appointed interim senator, George Helmy, will assume office after Menendez's resignation on August 20. Helmy, who previously served as an aide to Senators Cory Booker and Frank Lautenberg, was praised by Governor Murphy for his understanding of the role and his public service record.
Menendez, who was convicted last month on corruption charges, will step down on August 20. The governor emphasized the importance of replacing leaders who violate the public trust with individuals who are worthy of high office.
Helmy, a 44-year-old executive at RWJBarnabas Health, expressed his commitment to serving the public during his brief tenure in the Senate. He highlighted the importance of ensuring New Jersey's full representation in the U.S. Senate.
The upcoming election on November 5 will determine the permanent replacement for Menendez, with certification of the results scheduled for November 27. The governor's office released a letter from Menendez indicating his intention to drop an independent bid for Senate if exonerated in court.
