Rep. Andy Kim (D-N.J.) is scheduled to join the Senate on December 9, one day after Sen. George Helmy (D-N.J.) steps down, starting his Senate career earlier than planned. Kim, who has represented New Jersey’s Third Congressional District in the House since January 2019, won a full six-year Senate term in the November election, defeating Republican Curtis Bashaw. He will officially be sworn in on January 3 to begin that term, becoming the first Korean-American senator and the first Asian American senator from New Jersey.
However, before starting his full term, Kim will first complete the remainder of Helmy’s interim term. Kim announced his resignation from the House on December 5, where he served on the House Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committees and was a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. He was also the first Asian American House member from New Jersey.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy will appoint Kim to the Senate seat once Helmy resigns. By entering the Senate almost a month earlier than expected, Kim, aged 42, gains a seniority advantage over his peers who were elected in November, potentially allowing him to chair a committee sooner.
Helmy, a former top aide to Governor Murphy, was appointed to the Senate after former Sen. Bob Menendez’s resignation due to corruption-related charges. Helmy praised Kim’s dedication and character, stating that the voters made the right choice in electing him. He also expressed his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition with Kim.
During his 85-day term, Helmy served on various Senate committees and was commended by both Governor Murphy and Kim for his service to New Jersey. Kim plans to continue focusing on critical issues like youth mental health, building on Helmy’s efforts. Helmy, the first Coptic Orthodox Christian to serve in the Senate, has a background in public service and the private sector, making significant contributions to New Jersey.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Please rephrase this sentence.
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