A powerful nor’easter swept across New Jersey over the weekend, producing sustained winds up to 60 mph, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding, while Gov. Phil Murphy (D) was absent during critical emergency preparations.
Acting Governor Tahesha Way, appointed lieutenant governor in 2023, stepped in to manage the response and declared a state of emergency Saturday evening to safeguard residents and coordinate state resources.
Way urged the public to stay informed and avoid unnecessary travel.
“Starting on Sunday, a dangerous coastal storm will begin to move past our state with extreme weather conditions for several counties, especially those on the Shore,” she said. “I urge all New Jerseyans to exercise caution… and remain off the roads unless absolutely necessary.”
The Blaze reports that Murphy and his wife, Tammy, were attending a family friend’s wedding in Europe from Oct. 9 through Oct. 14.
His office confirmed he maintained communication with emergency officials but did not specify whether he considered cutting the trip short amid the storm.
The governor’s extended travel has previously drawn criticism.
In December 2021, Murphy faced public backlash for an eight-day Christmas vacation in Costa Rica while COVID-19 cases surged in New Jersey.
He had also traveled there in 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Observers noted that Murphy is not the only elected official criticized for leaving state responsibilities during emergencies.
Texas Sen. Ted Cruz (R) faced nationwide backlash in 2021 after flying to Cancun during a severe winter storm that left millions of Texans without power.
Way’s declaration covered all 21 counties, activating emergency services statewide.
The lieutenant governor assumed full executive authority as acting governor, a protocol routinely used when the governor is out of state, most notably following the death of Sheila Oliver, Murphy’s predecessor.
Way signed the order, which began at 10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11.
Social media users quickly noted Murphy’s absence.
“Typical Dem. whenever there’s a disaster about to loom they cut out for parts unknown,” one comment read, while another asked, “Who are you?” in response to Way’s posts.
Despite not issuing the emergency declaration personally, Murphy shared and retweeted Way’s messages to inform the public.
During the storm, Murphy continued official duties remotely, attending the 250th anniversary celebration of the Navy and Marines alongside Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) and participating in the groundbreaking of the Coriell Labs Innovation Center in Camden, according to NorthJersey.com.
The established line of succession ensured that Way could execute all executive powers in his absence.
Preparations for the nor’easter included warnings of coastal and inland flooding, property damage and hazardous driving conditions.
Authorities emphasized caution for residents in affected areas, particularly along the shore.
Experts suggest that the governor’s physical absence during a high-profile emergency could influence public perceptions of leadership effectiveness, especially as New Jersey heads into the November elections, despite this being Murphy’s last term.
While Way managed the emergency response effectively, observers noted the optics of the governor attending an overseas wedding during a major storm could become a political talking point.
State officials and residents alike monitored the unfolding situation, highlighting the importance of clear communication and timely action during severe weather events.
