Andy Kim, the Korean-American who became the first U.S. Senator of Korean descent, officially began his legislative activities on the 8th, about a month earlier than the original term start date of January 3rd next year (local time).
This was due to the resignation of former Senator George Helmy, who was the interim successor to former Senator Bob Menendez, who resigned after being convicted on bribery charges.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a statement that day announcing Kim's appointment as Senator. In the statement, Governor Murphy said, "I will appoint Andy Kim as Senator so that he can begin his term before the new year," adding, "This measure will allow Senator Kim to adapt to his new role as smoothly as possible and serve the residents of New Jersey."
Senator Kim said, "It is an honor to be able to work in the U.S. Senate representing New Jersey, which gave my family the opportunity for the American Dream," and added, "I am ready to fight to achieve the American Dream, which many neighbors have yet to realize."
Former Senator Menendez's term was until the end of this year, but he resigned in August after being convicted on bribery charges. Governor Murphy appointed former Senator Helmy, who was previously his chief of staff, as his successor. According to the political media outlet Politico, when Governor Murphy temporarily appointed former Senator Helmy, he said that Helmy would resign once the results of the November Senate election were officially confirmed. In the United States, when a vacancy occurs in the federal Senate, the governor appoints a senator until a successor is elected through a special or regular election. Senator Kim defeated Republican candidate Curtis Bashaw by more than 9 percentage points last month.
Meanwhile, on the 3rd, Senator Kim issued a statement publicly criticizing President Yoon Suk-yeol's declaration of martial law, saying, "The manner in which this martial law was declared undermines the fundamental basis of people's governance and dramatically increases South Korea's vulnerability at a time when the people should enjoy security and stability." He continued, "The National Assembly of the Republic of Korea's resolution to lift martial law is an important measure for easing tensions and should be respected," adding, "Democracy always faces challenges, which must be resolved through democratic and open processes."
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