Newly elected Democratic Senators Andy Kim of New Jersey and Adam Schiff of California have been appointed to the U.S. Senate three weeks ahead of schedule, following their respective election victories in November and recent Senate resignations.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy appointed Kim after the state officially certified the 2024 election results and following the resignation of Senator George Helmy. Helmy, appointed earlier this year after Senator Bob Menendez's resignation due to a corruption conviction, stepped down on Thursday. Kim secured his Senate seat by defeating Republican challenger Curtis Bashaw with a substantial margin.

In California, Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Adam Schiff to fill the vacancy left by Senator Laphonza Butler, who resigned on Saturday. Butler had been appointed in 2023 to complete the term of the late Senator Dianne Feinstein. Schiff's victory over Republican candidate Steve Garvey was also decisive.

Both Kim and Schiff are expected to be officially sworn into the Senate on Monday. Kim's appointment marks a historic moment as he becomes the first Asian American Senator from New Jersey and the first Korean American Senator in the nation. Governor Murphy expressed his confidence in Kim's ability to serve the people of New Jersey effectively.

Helmy, in his resignation statement, emphasized his collaboration with Kim to ensure a smooth transition and expressed his honor in serving the people of New Jersey. During his short time in office, Helmy highlighted his legislative efforts, including introducing and co-sponsoring numerous bills and resolutions, maintaining a perfect voting record, and advocating for various causes. He also mentioned his success in nominating candidates to U.S. Military Academies.

Menendez's July conviction stemmed from charges of accepting bribes in exchange for using his political influence to interfere in investigations. He recently requested a new trial and dismissal of the conviction, citing concerns about evidence presented to the jury.