November 8, 2024
Newark, NJ — Following President-elect Donald Trump’s victory, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has promised to protect New Jersey’s values while remaining open to cooperation on issues of mutual interest. In a post-election Q&A, Murphy asserted his readiness to “fight to the death” if Trump’s policies threaten New Jerseyans, while also emphasizing a commitment to bipartisan collaboration.
“As we respect the peaceful transition of power, if there is any attack on the Garden State or any of its communities from Washington, I will fight back with every fiber of my being,” Murphy stated, adding that he would pursue any “opportunity for common ground” when possible.
Murphy, who has been a vocal critic of Trump’s policies, highlighted that his primary focus is to safeguard New Jersey’s interests while remaining open to collaboration on shared goals. “It is our responsibility to stand up against any threat to our state or to our people,” he emphasized. “But it is also our responsibility to take any opportunity that presents itself to work with [Trump] to protect and uplift the people of our state.”
GOP Criticism and Call for Focus on New Jersey Priorities
State Assembly Minority Leader John DiMaio, a Republican from Hackettstown, argued that Murphy’s rhetoric overlooks the messages voters sent in Tuesday’s election. “It’s time for the governor to recognize that his values may not reflect the values of New Jerseyans as widely as he assumes,” DiMaio told Fox News Digital, adding that struggling families and business owners are seeking support for local issues over political battles with Washington.
A Shift in New Jersey’s Political Landscape
Murphy acknowledged Trump’s improved performance in New Jersey, noting that Trump lost the state by only 4% in 2024, compared to 16% in 2020, signaling shifting political dynamics in the traditionally Democratic state. While Murphy stopped short of calling New Jersey a “swing state,” he noted Trump’s appeal in areas like Passaic County as evidence of a changing voter base.
Despite these shifts, Murphy commented, “I do not believe we are a swing state,” and emphasized his satisfaction with several down-ballot wins for Democrats, particularly along the Route 22 corridor where Rep. Tom Kean Jr. retained his seat.
Trump’s Past Support for State Projects and Immigration Challenges
Although political differences remain, Murphy credited Trump for several past contributions to the state, including his support for the Portal North Railroad Bridge project in Secaucus and assistance during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Murphy also cited his personal response to reported Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity during Trump’s first term, describing how he went to a reported ICE activity area to support New Jersey’s immigrant community. “Whether that scared them off or not, I don’t know, but it’s an example of a small step that we’re willing to try anything if it’s contrary to our values,” Murphy said.
Preparing for Future Political Challenges
As New Jersey approaches the 2025 gubernatorial race, Murphy suggested that his narrow 2021 re-election victory may be a “canary in the coalmine” for Democrats, highlighting the importance of understanding New Jersey’s shifting political landscape. With Republicans showing renewed strength, Murphy urged Democratic leaders to assess these changes carefully.
Sources
- Fox News Digital. (2024). “NJ Governor Phil Murphy Vows to Fight Trump Admin Policies That ‘Attack’ New Jersey.”
- New Jersey Advance Media for NJ.com. (2024). “Murphy Acknowledges Trump’s Stronger Support in New Jersey, Pledges Continued Defense of State Values.”
