Official announcements from Governor Newsom's office or California state government

Andy Kim and Adam Schiff Sworn in Early as U.S. Senators Amid 'Trump-Proofing' Efforts

Dec 9, 2024, 03:28 PM

New Jersey Representative Andy Kim and California Representative Adam Schiff were sworn in as U.S. Senators on Monday, marking their early entry into the Senate. Kim, a three-term congressman who defeated Republican businessman Curtis Bashaw in the election to replace convicted Senator Bob Menendez, was appointed by Governor Phil Murphy to finish Menendez's term. Schiff, who has been a vocal critic of Donald Trump, was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom to fill the vacancy left by Senator Dianne Feinstein. Both senators were sworn in by Vice President Kamala Harris. The early swearing-in has sparked some controversy, with critics questioning the constitutionality of their appointments. Meanwhile, Governor Newsom has been vocal about 'Trump-proofing' California in anticipation of Trump's second term, indicating a strategy to resist potential federal policy changes. Andy Kim is also the first Korean American senator in U.S. history.