Outgoing New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy was absent from the state when a state of emergency was declared on Saturday night, with Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way stepping in as acting governor to announce the emergency measures.
“To prepare for this storm, I am issuing a State of Emergency for all 21 counties as a precaution, empowering our state’s emergency services personnel to take necessary actions,” Acting Governor Way stated in her announcement.
This term-limited Democrat, who often takes extensive vacations, including trips to his luxurious villa in Italy, did not make his travel plans public while a powerful nor’easter was projected to hit the state, posing risks of major storm damage.
In a public schedule released by Murphy’s office on October 8, it was noted he would be traveling to Europe with his wife, Tammy, starting October 9 and returning on October 14.
“Governor Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy are away this weekend to attend a close friend’s wedding in Europe. The Governor has maintained close communication with his team and officials regarding the nor’easter storm affecting the East Coast,” stated Murphy spokesman Tyler Jones in an update to The Post late Sunday evening.
However, Jones did not clarify if Murphy would alter his travel plans due to the impending storm.
Way, who was sworn in as Lt. Gov. in September 2023 following the passing of her predecessor, Sheila Oliver, previously served as NJ’s secretary of state. Oliver had been acting governor at the time of her death while Murphy was once again out of the country.
Murphy’s tendency to vacation extensively has drawn criticism historically.
For instance, in December 2021, Murphy faced backlash for taking an eight-day Christmas vacation in Costa Rica while COVID-19 cases surged in the state.
Social media responses to Way’s announcement about the emergency declaration revealed confusion among residents, with some curious about Murphy’s absence.
“Where is the governor?” one user asked.
“Who are you?” another queried.
