New Jersey interim Senator George S. Helmy announced that he will resign on December 8, giving way to Senator-elect Andy Kim, who will now take his seat earlier than scheduled.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime representing the people of New Jersey in the Senate and I am eternally grateful to [Gov. Phil] Murphy for entrusting me with this responsibility,” Helmy said in Tuesday’s statement. “Looking back on my now 85 days and counting in this office, I am proud of the work my team and I have been able to accomplish.”
Helmy, appointed by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy to temporarily fill the seat vacated by former Sen. Bob Menendez, is stepping aside following Kim’s decisive election victory over Republican Curtis Bashaw in November’s election.
The Senator’s decision to step down was a planned move to ensure a seamless transition for his successor. When Murphy appointed Helmy to fill the seat in August, he stated that Helmy would serve until November’s election results are certified and the Senator-elect could take office.
Kim, a three-term House member from South Jersey, is expected to be certified by the New Jersey Board of State Canvassers on Friday and sworn in to complete the remainder of Menendez’s term.
Kim must first resign his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives before he assumes office on December 9. Fellow Democrat Representative-elect Herb Conaway, Jr. will succeed Kim as District 3’s new representative on January 3.
Kim’s election marks a historic milestone, making him the first Korean American Senator and New Jersey’s first Asian American Senator.
Helmy expressed full support for his successor, highlighting their close collaboration on the transition.
“Having known him for nearly a decade now, I can attest to Senator Kim’s great dedication, character, and empathy towards the people of New Jersey,” Helmy expresses to Roll Call.
Kim will assume office as New Jersey’s newest senator on Sunday, marking the next chapter in the Garden State’s representation in Washington.
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