WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator George Helmy (D-NJ) introduced his senior staff Friday, outlining their roles as he begins his term representing New Jersey in the U.S. Senate. Helmy also announced three office locations, two in New Jersey and one in Washington, D.C., where constituents can reach out for assistance.
Helmy, a high-ranking official in the Murphy administration, has packed his office with Murphy aides as the governor’s term in office winds down, and Murphy allies could be looking for new jobs next year.
“Representing New Jersey in the United States Senate requires a dedicated team of individuals devoted to public service and our state,” Helmy said in a statement. “I am thrilled to have a staff with vast professional backgrounds and experiences who I know have a shared vision for the success of our office.”
Helmy’s senior team includes Danny Smith as Chief of Staff. Smith previously worked at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP and served as Chief Counsel on the Senate Judiciary Committee for Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). David McCallum, a veteran Senate staffer with experience working for several senators, including Democratic Leader Harry Reid, will serve as Senior Advisor.
Robert Kelly, with over 18 years of federal service for New Jersey senators, will serve as Deputy Chief of Staff. Rajiv Venkataramanan, previously Chief Counsel and Acting Legislative Director for Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), has been appointed Chief Counsel and Legislative Director.
Rudy Rodas, who previously worked as a senior aide to Senator Menendez and in the office of Governor Phil Murphy, will serve as State Director. Leila Collins, a former Senior Advisor in the Murphy administration, is Senior Policy Advisor. Michael Gray, previously District Director to Rep. Donald Payne, Jr. (D-NJ), has been named Senior Outreach Advisor, and Tyler Jones, former Deputy Press Secretary to Governor Murphy, will serve as Press Secretary and Senior Communications Advisor.
Senator Helmy encouraged constituents to reach out to his offices for assistance, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and advocacy.
The job selection process was apparently closed to New Jersey Democrat party insiders. There was no equity or inclusion to be found during the process.