George Helmy, the former chief of staff to New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, was sworn in Monday as the new U.S. senator representing New Jersey. Helmy replaces former Sen. Bob Menendez, who resigned in August after his conviction on bribery charges. The swearing-in ceremony took place in the U.S. Senate chamber, with Senate President Pro Tempore Patty Murray, D-Wash., administering the oath.
Helmy, a Jersey City native, will serve the remainder of Menendez’s term, which expires on January 3, 2025. Helmy is expected to serve on the Foreign Relations, Finance, and Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs committees, the same assignments previously held by Menendez.
Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., escorted Helmy to the dais, where he took the oath. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., congratulated Helmy, calling him a “great addition” to the Senate. Helmy becomes the first Arab American senator in the current Congress and the first member of the Coptic Orthodox Church to serve in the Senate.
Helmy’s tenure will be brief, as the Senate seat is up for election in November. U.S. Rep. Andy Kim, D-N.J., is running for the seat against Republican candidate Curtis Bashaw. Menendez had filed to run for re-election as an independent before his resignation but remains entangled in legal battles.
Menendez was convicted in July on charges of accepting bribes in the form of cash, gold bars, and a car in exchange for political favors. His wife, Nadine Menendez, was also charged but has yet to go to trial. The case involved Menendez acting as an agent for the Egyptian government, among other allegations.
Helmy’s appointment by Gov. Murphy was widely expected, though some speculated that Murphy might appoint Kim to the seat to boost his candidacy in the upcoming election. Helmy’s background includes serving as state director for Sen. Booker and working for the late Sen. Frank Lautenberg. He holds degrees from Rutgers University and Harvard University and currently resides in Morris County.
Helmy’s role will end when the winner of the November election is certified.
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