TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy is blaming Republicans and the Trump Administration for rising energy prices across the state, criticizing a recently signed federal spending bill he says will lead to higher household costs.
“The disastrous federal spending bill recently signed into law will only make energy more expensive for everyday New Jerseyans,” Murphy administration spokesperson Stella Porter said in a statement to Gothamist.
On June 1st, New Jersey energy bills jumped 20%, after another large increase in 2024, raising rates by 35% over a one year period.
The comments come amid growing concern over energy affordability in New Jersey, where residents have seen significant increases in utility bills over the past year. Murphy, a Democrat now in his second term, said the state is exploring all possible options to ease the burden on working families.
“Every option to reduce energy costs is currently on the table,” Porter added.
The federal legislation referenced by Murphy was backed by Republican lawmakers and the Trump Administration and has drawn criticism from Democratic leaders for its potential economic impact on middle-class households.
Murphy’s remarks have drawn criticism from state Republicans, who argue that energy costs in New Jersey have climbed under his leadership, pointing to years of Democratic control in the state.
No immediate policy changes were announced, but the Murphy administration has signaled that state-level relief or regulatory adjustments could be forthcoming.