TRENTON, NJ — Governor Phil Murphy faced fierce backlash this weekend after announcing his arrival in Saudi Arabia for an economic mission, while wildfires and other crises continued to plague New Jersey.
Murphy posted on social media Saturday that he and First Lady Tammy Murphy had landed in Saudi Arabia for a six-day trip to meet with business leaders and promote economic ties. “Just landed in Saudi Arabia!” Murphy wrote. The announcement drew immediate and widespread criticism across social media platforms.
Key Points
- Governor Murphy announced a six-day trip to Saudi Arabia as wildfires continued in New Jersey.
- Residents and critics accused him of abandoning the state during a crisis.
- Murphy’s trip is part of an economic mission with Choose New Jersey.
Residents vent frustration as fires burn back home
Social media users blasted Murphy for leaving the state during a time of crisis, with one user posting, “NJ is still on fire,” and another writing, “Phil the state is burning.” Criticism ranged from accusations of wasting taxpayer dollars to calls for the governor to remain abroad permanently.
Many pointed to school budget cuts, wildfires in Ocean County, and other ongoing issues as reasons Murphy should have stayed in New Jersey rather than travel overseas.
One comment read, “NJ schools are being forced to engage in mass layoffs… while you are off vacationing on taxpayer dollars.”
Economic mission overshadowed by domestic turmoil
Murphy’s trip, conducted alongside Choose New Jersey, aims to build relationships with Gulf industry leaders and create future economic opportunities for the state. However, the optics of his absence during active emergencies have dominated public reaction.
Opponents seized on the trip as a political liability, suggesting the governor is using the mission to bolster his resume for a potential future national run. “Just building his foreign relations resume so he can run for a higher office,” one commenter posted.
Calls for accountability grew louder as more residents expressed concern over leadership priorities.
Critics question timing and taxpayer funding
Murphy has not yet publicly responded to the backlash, nor has his office provided details on the cost of the trip or specific expected outcomes.
Meanwhile, anger continues to mount as communities affected by wildfires and state budget shortfalls struggle without visible leadership from Trenton.