New Jersey Governor appoints successor to anti-Türkiye Sen. Menendez
Anti-Türkiye US Senator Menendez charged with 'bribery', US, September 22, 2023. (AA Photo)
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy announced the appointment of his former chief of staff, George Helmy, to fill the Senate seat vacated by Bob Menendez following his resignation due to corruption charges.
Helmy, who served as Murphy’s chief of staff from 2019 to 2023, expressed gratitude and a strong commitment to representing New Jerseyans in the Senate.
Murphy noted that Helmy’s deep understanding of Congress made him the ideal choice for the position. Helmy is expected to be sworn in on Sept. 9, when the Senate reconvenes.
Anti-Türkiye Senator
Anti-Türkiye Senator Menendez, who announced his resignation effective Aug. 20, was convicted on multiple charges related to bribery, including accepting gold bars, mortgage payments, and cash in exchange for political favors. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer had urged Menendez to step down following the guilty verdict.
Menendez withdraws bid
Menwhile, Menendez officially withdrew his independent bid to try to hold on to his Senate seat on Friday.
In a letter to the New Jersey Division of Elections, he requested that his name be removed from the ballot in November.
“I am advising you that I wish to have my name withdrawn from the ballot,” Menendez wrote to Donna Barber, acting director of the state Division of Elections.
