In a historic victory, Rep. Andy Kim (D-NJ) was elected to the U.S. Senate on November 5, becoming the first Korean American to serve in the chamber. Kim’s victory, after a fiercely contested campaign against the Democratic establishment, is seen as a powerful call for political reform, transparency, and inclusivity.
Speaking to supporters in Cherry Hill, New Jersey on election night, Kim acknowledged the profound significance of his win. “This moment isn’t about me,” he said. “It’s about this moment in America and what we each individually tried to do to meet that moment.”
The 42-year-old Kim launched his campaign in September 2023, a day after Senator Bob Menendez was indicted on bribery charges. Kim, the son of Korean immigrants, entered the race with a pledge to restore public trust in government. Despite facing opposition from New Jersey’s Democratic machine, including a primary challenge from Tammy Murphy, the governor’s wife, Kim’s grassroots campaign grew in strength, focusing on the need for transparency and accountability in politics.
During his victory speech, Kim reflected on his personal journey and his family’s immigrant experience. He recounted how his parents, who immigrated from South Korea, lived temporarily in a New Jersey hotel while his father started his career as a cancer researcher in Camden. “For my parents, this hotel was an important step in achieving the American dream,” Kim said, underscoring the values of service and sacrifice that guided him into public life.
Kim’s message resonated with voters who, like him, are frustrated with the status quo in American politics. He noted that people he met on the campaign trail frequently voiced distrust in public institutions. “People tell me they simply didn’t trust their public servants,” Kim said, addressing the erosion of faith in government. “We need to recognize that we face significant challenges… The divisions we face are deep to the bone. They will not be fixed by any single election.”
Looking ahead, Kim emphasized the importance of national unity as the United States nears its 250th anniversary. He proposed efforts to foster civic engagement and revitalize a sense of shared purpose, suggesting investments in community groups and initiatives to bolster patriotism rooted in giving back. “The greatness of America is not what we take from this country, but what we give back,” he said.
Kim also acknowledged the sacrifices made by his family during the campaign, addressing his two young sons directly. “I know this hasn’t been easy,” he said, “but I hope you’re proud of me, and I hope that you’d come to understand why I did what I did.”
As the first U.S. senator from South Jersey in over 50 years, Kim pledged to serve all New Jerseyans, regardless of political affiliation. “I hope to represent everyone in this state, whether you voted for me or not,” he said, vowing to prioritize service over self-interest.
Kim closed his speech with a challenge to supporters: “Our time here should be about what we contribute, not what we take. Thank you for being with me on this journey. Are you proud of what we built? Are you ready to keep fighting for our country?”
