Andy Kim Elected as NJ Senator, Makes History

Democratic Representative Andy Kim has been elected as New Jersey's U.S. Senator, succeeding Bob Menendez who resigned after a federal bribery conviction. Kim, who becomes the first Korean-American in the Senate, defeated Republican Curtis Bashaw, who personally financed his campaign and positioned himself as a moderate. The race was noted for Kim's successful challenge to New Jersey's 'party line' ballot system, which was ruled unconstitutional. Kim, a former Obama administration national security aide, gained national attention for his actions following the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. His victory continues the Democratic control of the Senate seat, maintaining a streak that dates back to 1972. Gov. Phil Murphy has announced George Helmy as the interim senator until Kim's term begins.