Governor Murphy Announces George Helmy as Chief of Staff

TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today announced that George Helmy, current State Director to U.S. Senator Cory Booker, will serve as Chief of Staff to the Governor. The Chief of Staff oversees all the workings of the Governor’s Office and the Executive Branch, including the Governor’s cabinet and agencies.

“I’m thrilled to announce George Helmy as my next Chief of Staff,” said Governor Murphy. “George is uniquely equipped to help lead our team as we begin our second year in office. His mix of state and federal experience, management skills, and deep relationships with elected officials and political leaders make him the perfect fit for the job. I’ve seen his leadership on projects ranging from the Gateway Program to Homeland Security funding to the all-important constituent relations, and I know he’ll bring creative and wise solutions to every challenge he encounters.”

“I’d also like to thank Acting Chief of Staff Kathleen Frangione for stepping up to lead our team during the transition. Kathleen is one of my most trusted advisors and I will continue to rely on her counsel as my Chief Policy Advisor.”

“From the beginning, Governor Murphy and I have strived to build a stronger and fairer New Jersey that works for every family,” said Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver. “As the next Chief of Staff to the Governor, George Helmy will play a critical role in executing that vision. I know he’s served Senator Booker ably over the last five years, and I look forward to his contributions to the Murphy-Oliver Administration.”

“I can’t think of a better fit to lead Governor Murphy’s team than George Helmy,” said Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). “With his vast experience in both the public and private sector, and an unmatched intellect and work ethic, George is uniquely qualified for this incredible opportunity. George is highly respected by folks across the political spectrum, and has spent years building meaningful relationships up and down the state.

“I thank George for his tireless work on behalf of all New Jerseyans during his time on my staff, and I look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role.”

“I’m honored to serve as Chief of Staff to Governor Murphy,” said incoming Chief of Staff George Helmy. “The Governor is committed to making New Jersey a better, more affordable place to live and work. I’ve long admired his drive to fix NJ TRANSIT, fully fund our public schools, and give paychecks a boost by attracting new investment to New Jersey. Now, I have the privilege of continuing to make that vision a reality as his Chief of Staff. 

“I am incredibly grateful to Senator Booker for the opportunities he gave me, for his belief in me, and for his friendship. I look forward to continuing my service to New Jersey in this role.”

A native of Jersey City, George Helmy has served as State Director to U.S. Senator Cory Booker for the past three years, serving on the Senator’s senior staff and overseeing the day-to-day operations of his New Jersey offices. Prior to serving as State Director, he worked as his state office Deputy Chief of Staff for two years.

Prior to serving in Senator Booker’s office, Helmy worked in the private sector with two Fortune 100 companies and served as an aide to the late U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg, handling issues such as gun safety and financial affairs.

Helmy currently lives in Morris County with his wife and two children. He received his Bachelors of Arts from Rutgers University and a Master’s degree from Harvard University.

Helmy will assume responsibilities as Chief of Staff on February 4, 2019. His salary will be $175,000/year.