MIDDLETOWN, N.J. — A spokesperson for New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said Monday that the governor is not harboring an undocumented immigrant in his home, despite Murphy previously daring federal authorities to “come get her.”
The representative told The New York Post that “no one’s ever lived in the home” under the circumstances described, insisting that Murphy’s comments had been “misinterpreted.” The spokesperson did not clarify why the governor made the claim if it were not true.
Murphy, a Democrat, made the remarks Saturday, suggesting that a woman with an unresolved immigration status was staying in an apartment above his garage. “And good luck to the feds coming in to try to get her,” he said at the time.
The statement drew swift criticism, including from former Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Tom Homan, who said, “If he’s knowingly harboring and concealing an illegal alien… we will seek prosecution.”
Republican Jack Ciattarelli, a 2025 gubernatorial candidate, called for Murphy’s impeachment if the claim proved true.
Murphy’s office has not provided further details on his initial statement or why he later backtracked on it.
The incident was first reported by Shore News Network.
Murphy admits to housing undocumented immigrant, challenges federal authorities: Try to get her
TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Phil Murphy revealed that he and First Lady Tammy Murphy are providing housing for an undocumented immigrant at their home, openly challenging federal authorities to take action.
Murphy made the remarks while discussing immigration policy, stating that he and his wife offered housing to someone in their “broader universe” who has not yet resolved their immigration status. “We said, you know what, let’s have her live at our house above our garage, and good luck to the feds coming in to try to get her,” Murphy said.
The comments come as Murphy continues to position New Jersey as a stronghold for immigrant protections, pushing back against Trump administration policies. His administration has previously implemented directives limiting local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
It remains unclear whether federal authorities will respond to Murphy’s statement, which could put him at odds with immigration enforcement efforts.