NEWARK, N.J. – Gov. Phil Murphy dismissed criticism over his out-of-state weekend during recent severe weather as politically driven.
He said the outcry was fueled by “right-wing political rags” masquerading as news outlets.
Murphy argued modern communications allow him to manage emergencies from anywhere and credited Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way for on-the-ground leadership.
Key Points
- Murphy called media criticism of his storm-weekend absence political and driven by “right-wing” outlets.
- He said governing in 2025 allows remote decision-making and leaned on Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way.
- He noted the storm’s impact was less severe than early forecasts and said operations continued.
Three-point defense from the governor
Murphy outlined three points: coverage he deemed partisan, the ability to govern remotely in 2025, and the requirement that a lieutenant governor be ready to act as chief executive at any moment.
He said some outlets “instigate” controversy during an election season and argued critics are “trying to score points” as the governor’s race tightens.
Murphy compared the flap to past storms, quipping he “can’t find Governor Christie’s mop,” a reference to Chris Christie’s 2016 remark when asked why he wasn’t in New Jersey during flooding.
He maintained that decisions, calls and directives would have been the same whether he was in Trenton, Newark or attending a family friend’s wedding.
Murphy added that Way “did a fabulous job,” including public updates, while agencies managed forecasts, flooding and beach-erosion assessments.
Context and operations during the storm
The governor said the nor’easter produced flooding and high winds in historically vulnerable areas but described the overall impact as less than feared.
He said state coordination with county and municipal leaders continued throughout and emphasized routine readiness for shoreline erosion reviews following such storms.
Murphy argued the criticism reflects a “19th-century” view of executive presence that ignores current emergency-management tools.
He framed the debate as a political sideshow, saying attention should remain on response capacity rather than his physical location at any moment.
Murphy reiterated that emergencies are handled by a statewide team and that continuity of government includes delegating to the lieutenant governor when appropriate.
