TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli criticized Gov. Phil Murphy after the governor admitted to housing an undocumented immigrant and taunting federal authorities over enforcement actions.
Ciattarelli is now calling for the impeachment of Governor Murphy.
Murphy made the remarks while discussing immigration policy at a far-left Blue Wave conference last week, stating that he and his wife had provided housing to someone in their “broader universe” who has not yet resolved their immigration status. “We said, you know what, let’s have her live at our house above our garage, and good luck to the feds coming in to try to get her,” Murphy said.
Shore News Network first reported that story.
Ciattarelli condemned Murphy’s comments, calling them irresponsible and a violation of federal law if the individual is in the country illegally. “The Governor causing a confrontation for state police by daring ICE to show up is insane and the height of irresponsibility,” Ciattarelli said. “If the Governor doesn’t immediately explain himself, it’s time for the legislature to begin impeachment proceedings.”
Paul Perez, president of the National Border Patrol Union, also criticized Murphy’s remarks. “Very foolish for anyone to dare the Trump administration to do anything. He’s a very strong leader and he’s playing games that put people in harm’s way,” Perez said. “If they have to charge him as well, so be it, he’s actually begging for it.”
The Manchester GOP weighed in as well, stating that unless the individual is the subject of a federal detainer or warrant, she is likely not at immediate risk of removal. However, the group accused Murphy of using the situation for political gain. “Murphy knows this. But he’s a political opportunist and a coward, and only steps in front of a camera or microphone if he knows he’s not risking his own (rhymes with glass) to make a controversial comment,” the organization said in a statement.
