TRENTON, NJ — New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy met with his cabinet Monday to discuss the potential impact of the Trump administration’s directive to freeze federal aid and outlined plans for swift legal action against the move.
In a statement shared on social media, Murphy called the directive “unlawful” and vowed to protect New Jersey residents from what he views as harmful federal policy changes.
“Today, I met with my Cabinet to discuss impacts of the Trump Administration’s unlawful directive to freeze federal aid,” Murphy wrote. “We’re swiftly taking legal action to protect our residents.”
The details of the federal aid freeze remain unclear, but states with significant reliance on federal funding could face budgetary challenges if the directive is upheld. Murphy’s administration is expected to coordinate with other states and advocacy groups in challenging the order.
The governor has previously clashed with the Trump administration over federal funding, environmental policies, and immigration enforcement, positioning New Jersey as a leader in opposing policies it views as detrimental to state residents.
On Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt c;arified that no individual benefits for individual Americans would be affected including welfare benefits, healthcare, or other one-on-one direct benefits. What the White House is temporarily pausing, pending review, is funding to groups.
Trump said the review is expected to proceed quickly.