Phil murphy calls for resignation of drunk driving new jersey mayor

Trenton, NJ – – New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has publicly called for the resignation of Lumberton Township Mayor Gina LaPlaca following her arrest on St. Patrick’s Day for driving under the influence (DUI).

The incident, captured on police bodycam footage, has sparked widespread controversy and demands for accountability across the state.

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LaPlaca, a Democrat and the mayor of the Burlington County township, was arrested on March 17, 2025, after police received reports of erratic driving. According to court documents, officers found an open container of alcohol in her vehicle and noted that her toddler son was in the car at the time.

The released bodycam video shows LaPlaca stumbling and struggling to complete a field sobriety test outside her home, eventually admitting to consuming alcohol after initially denying it.

“Based on what I’ve seen, I think it would be wise for her to put aside, until she can get to that better place, her public duty,” Murphy said.
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Speaking at a press conference on April 3, Governor Murphy addressed the situation with a tone of concern and firmness.

“Based on what I’ve seen, I think it would be wise for her to put aside, until she can get to that better place, her public duty,” Murphy said.

He expressed sympathy for LaPlaca’s personal struggles, noting that she has entered a 30-day inpatient rehabilitation program, but emphasized the need for leadership accountability. “I wish her a speedy journey in rehab, but it’s in the best interest of the community for her to step down,” he added.

The arrest has ignited a firestorm in Lumberton, with residents and local officials voicing outrage at township committee meetings. Many have pointed to the endangerment of LaPlaca’s young son as a particularly egregious aspect of the incident. “There’s a huge black eye and black cloud over our town right now,” said Amy Callahan, a local business owner, during a recent meeting. Community members have joined a growing recall effort, though organizers hope LaPlaca will resign voluntarily to avoid a protracted process.

Jim Logan, a leader in the recall movement, echoed this sentiment: “I hope she chooses to resign and we don’t have to go through the process of the recall.” However, the township’s municipal attorney has clarified that the committee lacks the legal authority to remove LaPlaca from office, leaving her resignation or a recall election as the only viable options.

LaPlaca’s husband, Jason Carty, a political activist, has publicly acknowledged her struggles with addiction, adding a layer of complexity to the public’s response. Despite this, the mayor has no

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