Murphy credits progressive policies for new jersey’s growth, downplays impact of undocumented immigrants

Murphy credits progressive policies for New Jersey’s growth, downplays impact of undocumented immigrants

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1 min read
February 2, 2025

TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Phil Murphy said New Jersey’s population growth is being driven by its policies on abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protections, rather than the state’s large undocumented immigrant population.

“The good news is we’re hot… People are moving in,” Murphy said. He cited a recent Los Angeles Times report suggesting that internal migration within the U.S. is increasingly tied to access to reproductive rights and other freedoms. “Most of them are, I think, moving in for the right reasons. Some of them are moving in for the wrong reasons,” he added, clarifying that while New Jersey benefits, the broader trend reflects a national divide.

New Jersey is home to approximately 2.3 million immigrants, including about 450,000 undocumented residents, making up nearly a quarter of the state’s population—well above the national average of 14.3%, according to government data.

Murphy acknowledged the challenges that come with growth, stressing the need for investments in housing, schools, and infrastructure. “With that goes a responsibility—housing that you can afford, seats in schools, transportation, roads, bridges, rails, tunnels,” he said.

Murphy frames New Jersey’s population surge as a sign of its progressive appeal while addressing concerns about infrastructure and affordability.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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