The Governor reported that he had received information about a neighborhood that was at risk of an immigration enforcement operation. He claimed to have positioned himself, along with his New Jersey State Police bodyguards, between the authorities and illegal migrants in order to prevent any action from being taken. “I simply went there one evening with my security detail and stayed there,” he stated, noting that federal agents did not appear. “I’m not sure if that deterred them or not, but it demonstrates a small step that we are prepared to take in defense of our values,” he added.
During the same press conference, the Governor pledged that the state of New Jersey would vigorously resist President Trump’s efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, while also suggesting a willingness to find common ground when opportunities arise. Murphy declared that New Jersey would explore all options to thwart any actions aimed at targeting illegal immigrants that contradict the state’s values.
This declaration is just one of many instances where the second-term Democrat has engaged in anti-ICE rhetoric to gain support from his followers. Recently, he faced criticism after hinting that he was sheltering an undocumented immigrant in his home. The Governor made this admission during a public forum at Montclair State University, challenging federal authorities to “come and get her,” receiving applause from the audience.
Although his representatives tried to clarify his remarks, they were met with swift condemnation from political opponents, including Trump’s border czar Tom Homan, who warned on Fox News’ “Hannity” that prosecution could be a possibility. Homan stated, “If he is knowingly providing shelter and concealing an illegal alien, that could be a violation of Title 8, United States Code 1324. I will pursue prosecution, or the Secretary will pursue prosecution.”
Following Murphy’s declaration about harboring an illegal immigrant, which sparked strong reactions from adversaries and caught the attention of Tom Homan, the Governor’s office did not respond to The Post’s request for comment.
