New Jersey Democratic Governor Phil Murphy is set to appoint George Helmy, his former chief of staff, as the interim senator to replace Bob Menendez. Menendez announced his resignation following his conviction on federal bribery charges. Helmy, who served as Murphy’s top aide from 2019 to 2023, currently works as an executive at RWJ Barnabas Health. He previously worked as an aide to New Jersey Senator Cory Booker. The decision to appoint Helmy was confirmed by a source speaking anonymously.
The selection of Helmy means that Rep. Andy Kim, the Democratic nominee for the seat in the upcoming November elections, was overlooked for the interim position. Kim is expected to face off against Republican candidate Curtis Bashaw. Kim had faced a tough primary challenge from Tammy Murphy, the first lady, before she withdrew her candidacy. Murphy’s decision to appoint Helmy denies Kim a potential boost in seniority if he were to win the election.
Menendez, aged 70, announced his resignation effective August 20th, shortly after his bribery conviction. He intends to appeal the verdict. The charges against Menendez involved accusations of abusing his political influence to benefit New Jersey businessmen, including securing deals with foreign entities and taking actions to favor Egypt’s government in exchange for bribes. The FBI found significant sums of money hidden in Menendez’s residence.
Despite the conviction, Menendez has vehemently denied the allegations, asserting his loyalty to the United States. Several Democratic colleagues, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, had urged Menendez to resign, with Murphy also calling for his expulsion from the Senate if he did not step down voluntarily. Menendez’s sentencing is scheduled for late October, close to the November election date.