Andy Kim Announces Challenge to Senator Bob Menendez in Upcoming Election, Setting Up Intraparty Showdown in New Jersey Senate Race.

New Jersey Representative Andy Kim announced Saturday that he will challenge Senator Bob Menendez in the upcoming election, becoming the first major intraparty challenger to emerge since Menendez declared he would not step down in the face of bribery charges. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who had the opportunity to appoint himself to the Senate in 2013, has since stated that he has “no interest” in running for the seat if his presidential run is unsuccessful.

Menendez, a Democrat and chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, was indicted in April 2018 on charges of accepting bribes from three businessmen. Christie, a former federal prosecutor, commended the Justice Department for indicting Menendez on what he described as “horrific” allegations.

In response to calls for his resignation, Menendez declared “I am not going anywhere” on the social media site formerly known as Twitter. Kim, who serves on the special House committee dedicated to countering China, said he felt compelled to run against Menendez as a result of the charges.

The election is scheduled for November 2020. It is unclear whether Menendez will remain in the race or if other challengers will emerge. The outcome of the election could have a significant impact on the balance of power in the Senate.