Governor Murphy Picks Successor to Menendez Amid Corruption Fallout

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy selects his former chief of staff, George Helmy, to fill Bob Menendez's Senate seat following Menendez's resignation due to corruption charges. The interim appointment by Murphy aims to maintain the Democratic majority in the Senate until the upcoming November election.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has chosen George Helmy, his former chief of staff, to serve the remainder of Bob Menendez's Senate term following Menendez's resignation amid a corruption scandal, sources revealed on Thursday.

Murphy is set to officially announce Helmy's appointment on Friday. The decision ensures the Democrats retain their narrow 51-49 Senate majority until a new senator is elected in November. The upcoming election is crucial, with Democrat Andy Kim expected to face off against Republican Curtis Bashaw.

Menendez, convicted on multiple charges including wire fraud and extortion, announced his resignation effective August 20. Helmy, who has a robust background in both the public and private sectors, previously served as chief of staff for U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Frank Lautenberg.

(With inputs from agencies.)