SOUTH JERSEY (KYW Newsradio) — Andy Kim was sworn in Monday as New Jersey’s next U.S. senator, replacing George Helmy, who was appointed to hold the seat after Bob Menendez’s conviction and resignation.
Helmy spent much of his career as a Senate staffer and knew exactly what he wanted to do when he was sworn in as an interim legislator.
“Fighting for New Jersey grants, fighting for more dollars to come home, fighting for legislation that matters to our state, fighting for the reintroduction of the SALT cap,” said Helmy, who said he’s been in close contact with Kim.
Kim has already begun assembling his staff — a headstart over other incoming senators, who will be sworn in next month.
Kim said he’s eager to deliver on his promises to help Americans.
“To address these challenges that people are facing with health care costs, child care costs. I want to be able to hopefully find bipartisan agreement on legislation to tackle the growing mental health crisis that we face as a country,” he said.
Gov. Phil Murphy laid out the early transition plan before the election. Kim will enjoy a small seniority boost, which could help with some committee assignments.