Trenton, New Jersey. In his remarks to the media on Monday after the 2024 election, Governor Phil Murphy acknowledged narrower margins in important contests and described his administration’s strategy for cooperating with President Trump’s new administration. Murphy also highlighted his dedication to upholding New Jersey’s fundamental principles and considered the lessons he had gained from the election.
In contrast to President Biden’s 17-point victory in 2020, Murphy pointed out that Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz won New Jersey by about five points in the presidential election. Murphy remarked, “It’s hard not to be sober about that and reflect,” citing crime, immigration, and economic concerns as the main causes of voter turnout.
Although Murphy expressed dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party’s overall performance, he did point to victories in New Jersey’s down-ballot contests, particularly in areas that have historically supported Republicans. He mentioned wins in counties where former President Trump beat the Democratic ticket at the top of the ballot, saying, “We had a lot of success down-ballot, even in some tough races.”
As he did throughout Trump’s first term, Murphy reiterated his administration’s willingness to work with the Trump administration while still opposing it. Murphy declared that he would fight back with all of his strength if Washington launched an attack on the Garden State or any of its municipalities. Citing prior cooperation on pandemic resources and infrastructure projects like the Portal North Bridge, he continued by saying his administration would likewise take advantage of chances for bipartisan cooperation.
In terms of immigration, Murphy pledged to vigorously protect immigrant communities, including by utilizing legal and other means to thwart any plans that may endanger New Jersey citizens or result in mass deportations. “We will fight to the death if it goes against our values,” Murphy stated, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive immigration reform.
Murphy urged the Democratic Party to reconsider its policy priorities and rhetoric in his closing remarks. He emphasized the need to effectively convey the party’s beliefs to voters from a variety of racial and socioeconomic backgrounds by saying, “We can’t take any community for granted.”
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