Phil Murphy announces replacement to serve remainder of Bob Menendez's New Jersey Senate term

Democratic New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy on Friday confirmed that his former chief of staff George Helmy will serve the remainder of Sen. Bob Menendez's term, starting next month.

Helmy will serve the last five months of Menendez's term after he was convicted on all counts by a jury last month. Menendez's final day in the office is scheduled for Aug. 20. 

Murphy claimed his former aide is the "ideal leader" to replace Menendez in the Senate, and that his experience working for the governor and New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker gives him the skills necessary to help his constituents for the rest of the term.

"The fact is [George] has devoted years of his life to untangling the red tape of government to help New Jerseyans access the benefits and resources they deserve," Murphy said in his announcement. "From helping veterans get the health care they need, to assisting senior citizens who depend on Social Security — George knows how to navigate the complexities of government and to make life easier for our families.

"And, as the proud son of two Egyptian American immigrants, who are both with us today, George will also make history as the only Arab American Senator serving in the 118th Congress."

Helmy praised Murphy's leadership, and thanked him for trusting him to take over for Menendez, who has served in the Senate since 2006.

“I will stand as our second crucial voice in the Democratic Caucus under Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on the important items that will come before us over the next months,” Helmy said in his own statement.

Helmy is expected to take office on September 9, after the Senate returns from its August recess, per the New Jersey Globe. New Jersey Rep. Andy Kim is running as the Democratic nominee for the full-term. He will face Republican Curtis Bashaw on November 5.

Misty Severi is an evening news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.