A significant nor’easter hit New Jersey’s coast over the weekend, continuing to cause issues into Monday. Curiously, Governor Phil Murphy was absent, tending to a personal matter as the state geared up for the emergency.
The Democratic governor, who cannot run for re-election, was not present on Saturday, prompting the lieutenant governor to step in as acting governor. Reports indicated that he and First Lady Tammy Murphy were attending a close family wedding in Europe that weekend.
A state of emergency had been declared on Saturday night ahead of the storm’s arrival, with residents warned to brace for flash flooding, winds up to 90 mph, and heavy rains. Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way commented, “A dangerous coastal storm will start affecting the state on Sunday, especially in coastal counties.”
She urged residents to be cautious, keep an eye on local forecasts, and stay informed about possible evacuations, recommending they stay off the roads unless necessary.
The acting governor issued a state of emergency across all 21 counties in New Jersey, emphasizing the need for precaution.
Reports later noted that Murphy and his wife would be in Europe until October 9th. A spokesman stated that although they are away, the governor remains in communication with emergency officials regarding the storm’s impact on the East Coast.
It’s uncertain whether the couple plans to shorten their trip in response to the storm, as Murphy is set to return on Tuesday, October 14th. His specific location in Europe wasn’t disclosed.
In the meantime, both Republican candidate Jack Ciatarelli and Democratic contender Mikie Sherrill were active on social media, but neither has directly mentioned the governor’s absence. Efforts to reach Murphy’s office and the campaigns of Sherrill and Ciatarelli for comments have been made.
