Phil Murphy

Last updated

Tammy Snyder
(m. 1993)
Phil Murphy
Gov.Phil Murphy2022.jpg
Murphy in 2022
56th Governor of New Jersey
Assumed office
January 16, 2018
Children4
Residence Drumthwacket
Education

    Philip Dunton Murphy (born August 16, 1957) [1] [2] is an American politician, diplomat, and financier serving as the 56th governor of New Jersey. A member of the Democratic Party, he was elected governor in 2017 and narrowly reelected in 2021. From 2009 to 2013, Murphy served as the U.S. ambassador to Germany under President Barack Obama.

    Contents

    Murphy had a 23-year career at Goldman Sachs, where he held several high-level positions and accumulated considerable wealth before retiring in 2006. He is involved in many civic organizations and philanthropic pursuits. He served as finance chairman for the Democratic National Committee in the mid-late 2000s under Howard Dean. [3] [4] During his ambassadorial tenure, Murphy dealt with international fallout from the United States diplomatic cables leak.

    While planning to run for governor of New Jersey, Murphy and his wife Tammy Murphy launched New Start New Jersey, a progressive organization. He defeated Republican, then-Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno, in the 2017 gubernatorial election with 56% of the vote. [5] In December 2019, Murphy became the chair of the Democratic Governors Association, [6] a position he held for a year. [7] He was reelected in an unexpectedly close race in 2021, defeating Republican nominee Jack Ciattarelli with 51.2% of the vote. Murphy is the first Democratic governor of New Jersey to win a second term since Brendan Byrne did so in 1977. [8] In July 2022, Murphy became the first National Governors Association chair from New Jersey.

    Early life and education

    Murphy's high school yearbook photo, 1975 Phil-Murphy-yearbook.png
    Murphy's high school yearbook photo, 1975

    Murphy was born in Needham, Massachusetts, [9] [10] [11] and was raised in both Needham and nearby Newton, the son of Dorothy Louise (Dunton) and Walter F. Murphy. [12] [13] [14]

    The family was Irish American, with Phil being third generation. [15] According to Murphy, his household was "middle class on a good day;" [10] [12] by his recollection, his mother, a secretary, and father, a high-school dropout who took any job he could (including liquor store manager and for-pay pallbearer), lived paycheck to paycheck. [10] [15] [16] [17]

    Both of his parents were enthusiastic supporters of John F. Kennedy and volunteered for his campaign in the 1952 United States Senate election in Massachusetts. [16] Murphy played soccer as a boy, an interest that stayed with him in later life. His mother believed strongly in the importance of education, and Phil and his three older siblings all earned college degrees. [15]

    Murphy graduated from Needham High School, along with future Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker, in 1975. [18] He graduated from Harvard University in 1979 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics. [19] [20] At Harvard he aspired to become a professional musical theater performer and was elected president of the Hasty Pudding Theatricals, a theatrical student society. [19] [12] [21] He then attended the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, where he received a MBA in 1983. [12] [2]

    Finance career at Goldman Sachs (1982–2003)

    Murphy began his career in finance with a summer associate internship at Goldman Sachs in 1982. [15] [22] He was hired after graduating in 1983. [23] He rose in the ranks quickly, later attributing that success to his ability to make deals: "Two people may not like each other and can't work together. Their mutual dislike is their problem. I don't let it become mine. I'll be the man in the middle and the three of us can work out something everybody is happy with." [11]

    From 1993 to 1997, Murphy headed the firm's Frankfurt office. [16] [17] His business responsibilities were later expanded to encompass Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, as well as in the emerging post-Warsaw Pact economies of Central Europe. [20] In this role he engaged in a number of transactions with the German government's Treuhandanstalt agency, whose purpose was to conduct the privatization of formerly state-owned enterprises within the boundaries of no-longer-extant East Germany. Murphy was also active in the Atlantik-Brücke organization, including co-founding its International Advisor Council. [24]

    From 1997 to 1999, Murphy served as the President of Goldman Sachs (Asia). [17] In that capacity, he was officed in Hong Kong. [25] During this time Goldman Sachs profited from its investment in Yue Yuen Industrial Holdings, a shoe manufacturer that became notorious for its harsh labor practices. [26] The $55 million investment was made the year before Murphy took the Asia post and it is unclear to what extent Murphy was aware of the firm's operational characteristics. [26] In 1998 Murphy told the Wall Street Journal that "We [at Goldman Sachs] are elite in the sense the Marine Corps is elite". [23]

    In 1999, Murphy secured a spot on the firm's management committee. [15] There his colleagues included Hank Paulson and Gary Cohn, both of whom later served at highest levels of the federal government. [23] This coincided with the repeal of Glass–Steagall; the repeal allowed Murphy and his colleagues to make much greater use of leverage and profoundly changed how the company generated profits. [23]

    In 2001, Murphy became global co-head of the firm's Investment Management Division. [15] [27] [23] This unit oversaw the investments of foundations, pensions, hedge funds, and wealthy personages, and by 2003 had amassed $373 billion in holdings. [23] Hedge funds, in particular, received large lines of credit from Murphy's unit. [23] Another company initiative that Murphy helped to undertake was the unit that did major business in the emerging markets within the EMEA region. [25]

    In 2003, Murphy's day-to-day responsibilities at the firm ended, and he became a Senior Director of the firm. [23] He retired in 2006. [16] [28] Murphy spent 23 years at Goldman Sachs in all. [16]

    Early government and political career

    Chair of the New Jersey Benefits Task Force

    In May 2005, [29] Governor Richard Codey named Murphy to chair the New Jersey Benefits Task Force on public sector employee benefits in response to the New Jersey pension crisis, a particularly long-running instance of the state-level pensions crises taking place nationwide. [2] [16] [23]

    The task force reported its findings in December 2005. [30] By this time Murphy was already considered to be retired from Goldman Sachs. [28] The report decried past state practices, saying that "gimmicks" had been constructed instead of genuine solutions. [28]

    As chair, Murphy recommended the sale of publicly owned assets. For the most part that did not happen, but some of his other suggestions, such as raising the age of retirement and recalculating how pensions related to salary earned, were taken. [19] Labor unions opposed the recommendations, with leader Carla Katz saying, "We will fight vigorously and loudly against any cuts to our pensions or health benefits proposed by the task force." [23] The New York Times wrote that "no matter what happens, the report's legacy may well be that it tried to tackle the issues head-on." [28]

    Finance chair of the Democratic Party

    Murphy at the 2007 Democratic National Committee fall meeting Phil Murphy (2076547256) (1).jpg
    Murphy at the 2007 Democratic National Committee fall meeting

    After leaving Goldman Sachs, Murphy served from 2006 to 2009 as the National Finance Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), where he worked with DNC Chair Howard Dean. [31] Murphy liked both Dean's vision for the party and the discipline Dean brought to the task, and the two became close friends. [15]

    It was Murphy who financed Dean's "50-state strategy". [31] Powerful Democrats in Congress such as Charles Schumer and Rahm Emanuel opposed the strategy, [27] but Murphy refused to visibly engage in this dispute, saying, "I'm a sucker for the view that you have it out in the locker room, not in public." [27] Former Goldman Sachs colleague and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Robert Rubin said of Murphy's ability to handle the new position, "He has very substantial technical expertise from his corporate finance work, but he combines that with a wonderful facility for dealing with people." [27] Dean later said that Murphy well learned the lesson not all such figures of commerce understand: that while in business you can command people to do things, in politics things are never so simple. [12]

    During his first year, Murphy focused on gaining donations from his contacts from his university years and Goldman Sachs; within that year he was able to substantially reduce the DNC's gap with the Republican National Committee. [27] In all, Murphy says he raised $300 million for the DNC. [16]

    Murphy was also a big donor to Democratic candidates, giving them almost $1.5 million by 2009. [32] This included modest contributions to individual candidates and several six-figure sums to party committees. [32] During the hotly contested 2008 Democratic presidential primaries he was a superdelegate but remained uncommitted for most of the contest. [22]

    Ambassadorship

    Murphy's official ambassadorial portrait Philip D. Murphy.jpg
    Murphy's official ambassadorial portrait
    Ambassador Murphy receiving gifts in Koln in mid-2013 near the end of his tenure. Also visible are Peter Jungen (right) and Mayor Jurgen Roters Abschiedsbesuch des amerikanischen Botschafters Philip D. Murphy im Kolner Rathaus-0758.jpg
    Ambassador Murphy receiving gifts in Köln in mid-2013 near the end of his tenure. Also visible are Peter Jungen (right) and Mayor Jürgen Roters
    Ambassador Murphy and Sunil Gulati presenting an autographed shirt of the U. S. National Team to Chancellor Angela Merkel at the 2011 Women's World Cup as Jill Biden and Chelsea Clinton looks on Chancellor Merkel is Presented with an Autographed U.S. Women's Jersey (5984656852).jpg
    Ambassador Murphy and Sunil Gulati presenting an autographed shirt of the U. S. National Team to Chancellor Angela Merkel at the 2011 Women's World Cup as Jill Biden and Chelsea Clinton looks on

    Murphy served as United States Ambassador to Germany under President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2013. [33] The possibility of his being named to the post was first reported by Spiegel Online International in May 2009. [24] The former U.S. Ambassador John Kornblum supported the choice, saying, "Murphy has been involved in German-American relations for many years. He's a good choice." [24] An agrément was issued, [34] and Obama formally nominated him to the position on July 9. [35] Murphy was confirmed by the United States Senate on August 7, [20] and appeared with his family in Berlin on August 21. [36] That they arrived in an expensive Gulfstream V executive jet irked Chancellor Merkel, who saw it as evidence of the long practice of presidents awarding wealthy donors with ambassadorships. [16] [35] Murphy presented his credentials in Berlin to German President Horst Koehler on September 3, [37] which the State Department considers his effective start date. [38] He was sworn into the position on September 13. [35]

    During his tenure, Murphy promoted American trade and focused on engaging Germany's youth through town hall meetings, exchange programs, and social media communication. [37] He said, "The legacy of our time together in Germany will be measured by how well we 'set the table' for tomorrow, by how deeply today's youth understand the ongoing relevance of the transatlantic bridge. They are tomorrow's leaders and our investment in their future is our highest priority." [37] In doing so he paid particular attention to children who had immigrated to Germany, who rarely had the opportunity to meet Americans. [39]

    The United States diplomatic cables leak contained negative statements Murphy signed about senior German politicians, including a remark by Murphy that Merkel was "insecure" and unfavorable comments by embassy staff about Guido Westerwelle, the German foreign minister. [40] Some German officials expressed desire that Murphy be recalled. [16] In response, Murphy appeared on German television outlets such as ZDF in an attempt at damage control. [40] In Spiegel Online , he said, "I'm a big boy. At the end of the day, the buck stops with me," and that he would not "apologize for one speck" of what his staff had done. [40] [ better source needed ] On December 5, he apologized for the leak in Welt am Sonntag. [41] Murphy later said that the episode was "incredibly awkward and embarrassing" but that the two countries worked through it, and that in the end Germany-United States relations were stronger than ever. [16]

    Ambassador Murphy greeting Secretary of State John Kerry upon arrival in Berlin early in 2013 Secretary Kerry Arrives in Berlin, Germany.jpg
    Ambassador Murphy greeting Secretary of State John Kerry upon arrival in Berlin early in 2013

    Regarding the European debt crisis, Murphy said in 2013, "The big debate in Europe, which I think is a false debate, is either fiscal consolidation or growth. And the reality is that Europe needs both: it needs fiscal consolidation and growth." [17] Regarding economic differences between the nations, he said, "Germany believes strongly that the first order of business is to cut your debts and deficits and from that, good things will come. We're more likely to say a little bit of stimulus will jump-start things, even if it means incurring more debt. But you work your way through those issues." [42]

    On May 29, 2013, it was announced that Murphy was stepping down from the post. [17] He was still ambassador as of July 3; [43] he returned to the United States at some point during July [16] [39] and formally stayed in the role until his mission terminated on August 26. [38]

    Post-ambassadorship

    Murphy was mentioned as a potential candidate in the 2013 New Jersey gubernatorial election, but did not run. [16] [44] Instead, upon returning to the U.S. after his ambassadorship, he rejoined Murphy Endeavors LLC (a business management consultancy firm with offices in Red Bank, New Jersey, at which he was the principal). [42] He started the firm in 2009 after leaving the DNC position, but it was soon put on hold due to his ambassadorial nomination. [22] He also gave speeches about his experiences in Germany, especially in connection with the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. [42]

    In 2014, Murphy created New Start New Jersey, a nonprofit progressive policy think tank that held a number of events around New Jersey. [45] His wife was co-founder, chair, and secretary. [46] The organization said it would neither endorse nor fund political candidates, as it was barred from doing so, [10] [47] but it raised Murphy's political visibility. Its events included an appearance by singer Jon Bon Jovi. [47] One of its goals was to help displaced workers back into the work force. [15] (Making reference to visibility, in 2016 hacked Podesta emails revealed that Murphy was already seriously considering running for governor when the organization was founded, telling Podesta that his ambitions were "very serious but not yet committed" and that the new entity would improve his name recognition. [48] )

    After Murphy announced his candidacy for governor, New Start New Jersey continued, albeit without Murphy on its board. [49]

    In September 2015, Murphy launched the progressive organization New Way for New Jersey, which held a number of town halls, including some by telephone on Sunday evenings, and encouraged Democrats to sign petitions critical of incumbent Governor Chris Christie. [50] Unlike New Start New Jersey, New Way for New Jersey was an explicitly political organization. [49]

    On March 2, 2016, New Way for New Jersey launched a petition that criticized Christie for neglecting his duties as governor due to his travel and support of Donald Trump's presidential campaign. The group implored Christie to "do your job or quit". [51]

    After Murphy announced his candidacy for governor, New Way for New Jersey folded. [49]

    2017 gubernatorial campaign

    Campaign logo Phil Murphy logo.png
    Campaign logo

    In May 2016 Murphy announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination in the 2017 New Jersey gubernatorial election. [49] [52] He became the race's first announced candidate. [49] [52] He said of his rationale, "I am running for governor because New Jersey desperately needs adult leadership that puts our people first." [53]

    Announcing so early was unusual. [49] Comparisons with unpopular former governor Jon Corzine, another wealthy former Goldman Sachs executive, were a challenge Murphy had to meet. [16] [54] [49] [55] Murphy also began the campaign with little name recognition. [54] He initially planned to lend $10 million to the campaign but to also aggressively fund-raise. [52] He said he would accept no so-called dark money and that "I'm holding our campaign to a higher standard." [56]

    Murphy holding a campaign event Phil Murphy for Governor (34206698800).jpg
    Murphy holding a campaign event

    Murphy was the first declared Democratic candidate for governor, although several other candidates were expected to run. Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, Assemblyman John Wisniewski of Sayreville, State Senator Raymond Lesniak, and State Senate President Stephen M. Sweeney of Gloucester County were often mentioned in news media along with other candidates. [57] [58] [59] Fulop and Sweeney were geographic rivals, and in terms of state party organizational support, Max Pizarro of the New York Observer characterized Murphy as "everyone's number two choice. If Fulop or Sweeney stumbles, Murphy could rocket from zero to 100 overnight." [59]

    On September 28, 2016, Fulop announced he would not run for governor and endorsed Murphy. [58] On October 6, Sweeney announced he too would not run, citing apparent party support for Murphy, whom he endorsed. [60] The move came as Murphy was corralling dozens of endorsements, including all of those from North Jersey county party committees and the most populous Central Jersey county committees. [61]

    As a result of these withdrawals Murphy became the clear front-runner for the nomination, [60] but Wisniewski and Lesniak, the two best-known remaining potential candidates, both said they still intended to run. [62]

    After the unexpected result of the 2016 United States presidential election, Murphy noted that the fortunes of the state Democratic Party had improved in the election, saying, "As with so many, I am disappointed by the [presidential] results from Tuesday. But I refuse to be discouraged. And I won't be dissuaded from working to make New Jersey a fairer, more just place for all of us." [63] Murphy subsequently drew criticism from the New Jersey Lieutenant Governor and Republican candidate for governor, Kim Guadagno, for seeming to draw a comparison between the Trump campaign and the early years of the Nazi rise to power in Germany. [64] [65]

    On November 15, Wisniewski, who gained visibility as a leader of the Fort Lee lane closure scandal investigations, announced his run for governor. [66] In his message he implicitly criticized Murphy, saying "I'm not a Wall Street executive. I haven't made hundreds of millions of dollars by outsourcing jobs. I've learned the value of public service..." [67]

    In January 2017 Murphy was endorsed by New Jersey's two U.S. senators, Bob Menendez and Cory Booker. [68] He also had the endorsements of all 21 county party organizations. [69] In statewide races, these designations offer favorable ballot position, which some voters pick by default, and are often central to success. [69] [70]

    By February 2017 Murphy was leading by a solid margin in a Quinnipiac Poll both for the Democratic nomination and in a putative general election matchup against Guadagno. [71] Another poll was less certain, showing most voters undecided. [72]

    Two debates with his main Democratic rivals, including former U.S. Treasury official Jim Johnson along with Wiesiewski and Lesniak, were held within a short span of time in May; during the second Murphy found himself under sustained attack by his rivals, but defended himself by staking out very progressive positions. [73] Politico wrote, "Underdogs Jim Johnson, Ray Lesniak and John Wisniewski savaged the front-runner, Phil Murphy, accusing him during the 90-minute televised contest of buying off party bosses and being disingenuous on environmental issues." [74] Subsequent campaigning by those three continued to emphasize that Murphy was "buying" the election. [75] Nonetheless, polls continued to show Murphy with a sizable lead over all rivals. [76] [77]

    With $19 million raised, of which $15 million was his own money, Murphy continued to spend the most of all the candidates; his spending was more than twice that of all the other Democratic and Republican candidates for governor combined. [74] He also donated $1.5 million to the various county party organizations as well as to some candidates for local offices. [69] Murphy captured the endorsement of the first major national figure to inject himself into the race, former Vice President Joe Biden. [78] Additionally, he was endorsed by former Vice President Al Gore, which helped solidify Murphy's environmentalist credentials after some attacks on his role as a financier investing in fracking operations. [79] He also had the fundraising support of wealthy entertainment figures Jon Bon Jovi and Whoopi Goldberg. [80] Most, though not all, of the key labor unions in the state, also supported Murphy. [69] Nevertheless, there was still a sense of apathy about the election on the part of the state's voters; as the New York Times stated shortly before the primary vote, "a majority of voters still say they 'don't know' who to vote for and are not doing much to find out." [70]

    Murphy won the June 6 primary decisively, with 48% of the vote. Johnson and Wisniewski finished second and third with 22% apiece, Lesniak got 5%, and scattered others less. [81] [82]

    Murphy faced Guadagno, the Republican nominee, in the November general election. [82] In that campaign Guadagno ran as a moderate, attempting to avoid association with both Christie, who held a record-low approval rating for a governor, and Donald Trump. [83] Instead she sought to focus on Murphy's Goldman Sachs background. [83]

    On July 26, Murphy announced Assemblywoman and Speaker Emerita Sheila Oliver as his running mate. [84]

    Murphy won the general election with approximately 56% of the vote, an overall percentage similar to the previous winning non-incumbent Democrat, Jim McGreevey, for said office (2001; 56.4%), almost completely wiping out the unusually large gains made by his predecessor, Chris Christie, in 2013 (60.3% of the vote - only the normally Democratic counties of Essex and Hudson voted for Christie's opponent, Barbara Buono; by contrast, Murphy won normally Democratic municipalities by margins more similar to Jon Corzine's in 2005, and pull roughly 50/50 Somerset County into the Democratic column for the first time since 1989.

    Murphy campaigned on the following policy proposals:

    Governorship

    First term

    On January 16, 2018, Murphy was sworn in as the 56th governor of New Jersey at the Trenton War Memorial, succeeding Chris Christie. [89] In one of his first executive orders, Murphy signed to revive subsidies for wind power in the state. [90] The next month, he signed legislation committing New Jersey to the Paris Agreement, an international treaty on climate change. [91] Murphy also ensured that the state sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for suspending the Clean Water Rule. [92] In March, he signed legislation that automatically registers anyone who applies for a driver's license or state ID to vote. [93] By June, Murphy had signed legislation to permit sports betting in the state. [94] In December, he signed into law new legislation that overhauled the way NJ Transit is managed. [95]

    In April 2019, Murphy signed a law allowing terminally ill patients with less than six months to live to choose to end their lives with a doctor's assistance. A month later, he signed legislation expanding the time period during which alleged sexual assault victims could sue their alleged attackers. [96] In June, Murphy signed a law restricting the use of solitary confinement in New Jersey prisons. [97] In October, he announced his opposition to the construction of a new power plant in New Jersey Meadowlands in North Bergen. [98]

    Murphy meets with President Donald Trump in April 2020 President Trump Meets with the Governor of New Jersey (49838679257).jpg
    Murphy meets with President Donald Trump in April 2020
    Murphy with President Joe Biden in September 2021 President Joe Biden tours New Jersey and New York (02).jpg
    Murphy with President Joe Biden in September 2021

    In 2020, Murphy's governorship was dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The first case in the state was reported on March 5, and Murphy declared a state of emergency on March 9. He signed multiple executive orders in late March that ordered a lockdown of the entire state. [99] By April, most schools and businesses had shut down, with students required to learn from home. By summer, Murphy had reopened most restaurants but imposed extensive mask mandates. [100] [101] By July, COVID-related deaths in the state neared 16,000 and over 100,000 residents had tested positive. [102]

    In the 2020 United States presidential election, Murphy initially endorsed New Jersey senator Cory Booker for the Democratic nomination. [103] After Booker dropped out of the race in January 2020, Murphy announced he did not intend to endorse any of the candidates still in the race. [103] After former vice president Joe Biden won the nomination, Murphy endorsed Biden. [104]

    In February 2021, Murphy signed multiple bills that liberalized the state's cannabis laws. The bills created a regulated cannabis industry in the state, permitted residents to carry up to six ounces of cannabis, and expunged 250,000 low-level cannabis arrests. [105] Under the new laws, the scent of alcohol or cannabis can no longer be used to justify a search by law enforcement. [106] In June, Murphy signed an executive order ending the COVID public health emergency while retaining some executive privileges and restrictions. [107] After his reelection in November, Murphy said he intended to have every child in school by winter. [108]

    2021 reelection

    Murphy speaks to the press following the second gubernatorial debate at Rowan University on October 12, 2021. FLD 4291.jpg
    Murphy speaks to the press following the second gubernatorial debate at Rowan University on October 12, 2021.

    On October 1, 2020, Murphy announced he would seek reelection, with Oliver as his running mate. He ran unopposed in the 2021 Democratic primary after two challengers were disqualified. [109] He defeated Republican nominee Jack Ciattarelli in the general election, albeit by much closer margin than in 2017, with his campaign harmed by the long duration of some of his COVID-19 executive orders. [110] Murphy became New Jersey's first Democratic governor since Brendan Byrne, in 1977, to be reelected. [111]

    Second term

    Murphy walking with Senator Cory Booker alongside security, October 2022 Senator Cory Booker, Michael Embrich, Governor Phil Murphy.jpg
    Murphy walking with Senator Cory Booker alongside security, October 2022

    In July 2022, Murphy was elected chair of the National Governors Association, becoming the first person from New Jersey to hold the office.

    In April 2023, Murphy intervened in the 2023 Rutgers University strike, inviting union representatives and the university administration to his office to negotiate. [112] The strike ended after five days of negotiations led by Murphy. [113] Murphy signed an executive order that would require all state departments and agencies to protect patients and health care professionals against legal repercussions for providing, receiving, assisting in providing or receiving, seeking, and traveling to New Jersey for gender-affirming health care services. [114]

    On July 21, Murphy filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration over New York's plan to implement congestion pricing in the most congested parts of Manhattan. [115] He has argued that the program, which is intended to reduce air pollution and provide funding for public transit, violates the National Environmental Protection Act, which requires a full environmental impact review of projects. [116] [117] Environmentalists criticized Murphy for claiming to be an environmentalist while trying to stop congestion pricing from going into effect in one of the world's most polluted and congested areas. [116]

    From July 28 until August 13, Murphy went on vacation, during which time Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver became acting governor. On July 31, Oliver was rushed to the Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center for a medical emergency; she died on August 1. [118] New Jersey Senate President Nicholas Scutari served as acting governor until Murphy returned. [119] [120] On September 8, Murphy appointed secretary of State Tahesha Way as lieutenant governor, filling the vacancy triggered by Oliver's death. [121]

    Approval ratings

    In April 2018, a poll found that Murphy was approved by a plurality of New Jersey residents, with 44 percent approving and 28 percent disapproving of his performance as governor; another 28 percent said they had no opinion. [122] In February 2019, a Monmouth University survey found that Murphy's approval rating had slipped to 43 percent and his disapproval rating had risen to 40 percent. [123] For most of 2019, Murphy ranked among the 10 least popular governors in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report . [124]

    A September 2019 Monmouth University survey found that 41 percent of New Jersey residents approved of Murphy and 38 percent disapproved. Another survey showed that 31 percent felt that Murphy's policies had hurt the middle class in the state, while only 17 percent said they had benefited. [125]

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, Murphy's approval rating saw a sizable uptick; a July 2020 Fairleigh Dickinson University poll found that Murphy's approval rating had increased to 67 percent, [126] and it remained above 60 percent for the rest of the year. [127] [128] By mid-2023, polling indicated that opinion of Murphy's governorship had become considerably more divided, with Rutgers-Eagleton and Monmouth University surveys finding that his approval ratings had fallen to 47 and 50 percent respectively. [129] [130]

    Civic activities

    A soccer enthusiast, Ambassador Murphy poses with girls school teams in Lower Saxony in 2011. Former U.S. national team players Briana Scurry and Amanda Cromwell are also present. Ambassador Murphy Poses With Local School Teams.jpg
    A soccer enthusiast, Ambassador Murphy poses with girls school teams in Lower Saxony in 2011. Former U.S. national team players Briana Scurry and Amanda Cromwell are also present.

    Murphy has been appointed to the boards or committees of various civic or philanthropic groups, including the NAACP, [2] the Local Initiatives Support Corporation, the Center for American Progress, 180 Turning Lives Around, [131] and several programs of the University of Pennsylvania, such as the Huntsman Program in International Studies and Business and the Wharton School Graduate Executive and Asian Program. [22] Other such entities include the Goldman Sachs Foundation, the Investment Company Institute, and Prosperity New Jersey. [22] He has served as the grand marshal of the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Rumson, New Jersey, several times. [15]

    Murphy has helped lead local charities to support troubled teens and domestic abuse survivors. He and his wife founded 2nd Floor, a teen helpline in New Jersey that had fielded 700,000 calls by 2015 and has helped save lives. [2] [15]

    In 2004–2005 Murphy co-chaired a national task force on 21st-century public education for the Center for American Progress that featured fellow co-chairs Governor of Arizona Janet Napolitano and academic and civil rights figure Roger Wilkins. [22] [132] [133] The Renewing Our Schools, Securing Our Future task force issued a report called "Getting Smarter, Becoming Fairer: A Progressive Education Agenda For A Stronger Nation" [133] that called for a longer school day, a reorganized school year, and extending learning scenarios to the pre-kindergarten and post-high school domains. [133]

    The Murphy family's time in Germany made them all soccer enthusiasts. [15] [37] Murphy has served on the boards of the U.S. Soccer Foundation [134] and the U.S. Soccer Federation World Cup Bid Committee for 2018 and 2022. [22] With his wife, he co-owns a stake in the professional New Jersey women's soccer club NJ/NY Gotham FC; [2] he has said that he knows the club is a money-losing venture but that he wants to show his soccer-playing daughter that women's professional soccer can exist in the United States. [135] The club currently brings in $9.3 million yearly and is worth over $80 million. [136] [137]

    Awards and honors

    In 2015, Murphy received an honorary degree from Hamilton College. [138] In 2019, he received an honorary degree from Rutgers University. [139]

    Personal life

    Murphy first met his future wife, Tammy Snyder, in 1987 [22] when they both worked at Goldman Sachs, but Murphy did not ask her out for another six years. [15] When he finally did, things progressed quickly: they became engaged 18 days later and were married within six months, [15] in 1993. [22]

    Murphy and his wife have four children, three sons and a daughter. [22] Murphy moved to Middletown Township, New Jersey, in the late 1990s. [75] He and his family live in a riverside estate with a six-figure annual property tax bill. [54] Murphy also owns homes in Germany and Italy. [135] The Murphy children have been educated at Rumson Country Day School and Phillips Academy. [15] Tammy Snyder Murphy has held a variety of financial, civic, and political positions as well as having been a homemaker. [32] [141] [142]

    Murphy and his wife are part owners of NJ/NY Gotham FC (formerly Sky Blue FC), a professional women's soccer team. In 2018, media outlets reported that the team was "plagued by poor housing, subpar facilities, and mismanagement." [143]

    On March 4, 2020, Murphy underwent surgery in New York City to remove cancerous tumors in his kidneys. [144] He made a full recovery shortly afterward. [145]

    Wealth

    Murphy's position at Goldman Sachs when the firm had its IPO brought his net worth above $50 million. [47] By one estimate, reported in Der Spiegel in 2009, his wealth after leaving the firm was in the range of several hundred million dollars. [34]

    In 2016, Murphy released five years' worth of federal tax returns. In 2014, he earned about $6 million, paid about $2 million in taxes for an effective tax rate of 34%, and directly or indirectly donated 24% of his income to charity. [135] The returns for the other years showed effective tax rates ranging between 32% and 39%. [146] Murphy's charitable donations during these five years averaged about $980,000 a year. [146] Due to his wealth and the complicated nature of his holdings, his federal tax filings have been known to exceed 300 pages in length. [135]

    Electoral history

    Democratic primary results [5]
    PartyCandidateVotes%
    Democratic Phil Murphy 243,643 48.37
    Democratic Jim Johnson110,25021.89
    Democratic John S. Wisniewski108,53221.55
    Democratic Raymond J. Lesniak24,3184.83
    Democratic William Brennan11,2632.24
    Democratic Mark Zinna5,2131.03
    Democratic Write-In4630.09
    Total votes503,682 100
    New Jersey gubernatorial election, 2017 [147]
    PartyCandidateVotes%±%
    Democratic Phil Murphy 1,203,110 56.03 +17.84%
    Republican Kim Guadagno 899,58341.89–18.41%
    Reduce Property Taxes Gina Genovese 12,2940.57N/A
    Libertarian Peter J. Rohrman 10,5310.49–0.08%
    Green Seth Kaper-Dale 10,0530.47+0.08%
    Constitution Matthew Riccardi6,8640.32N/A
    We The PeopleVincent Ross4,9800.23N/A
    Total votes2,147,415 100.00
    Democratic gain from Republican Swing +17.8
    New Jersey gubernatorial election, 2021
    PartyCandidateVotes%±%
    Democratic Phil Murphy (incumbent) 1,339,471 51.22 −4.81%
    Republican Jack Ciattarelli 1,255,18548.00+6.11%
    Green Madelyn R. Hoffman8,4500.32−0.15%
    Libertarian Gregg Mele7,7680.30−0.19%
    Socialist Workers Joanne Kuniansky4,0120.15N/A
    Total votes2,614,886 100.00 N/A
    Democratic hold Swing -5.78

    Related Research Articles

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Governor of New Jersey</span> Head of government of the U.S. state of New Jersey

    The governor of New Jersey is the head of government of the U.S. state of New Jersey. The office of governor is an elected position with a four-year term. There is a two consecutive term term limit, with no limitation on non-consecutive terms. The official residence of the governor is Drumthwacket, a mansion located in Princeton, New Jersey. The governor's office is located inside of the New Jersey State House in Trenton, making New Jersey notable as the executive's office is located in the same building as the legislature. New Jersey is also notable for being one of the few states in which the governor's official residence is not located in the state capital.

    Nicholas Paul Scutari is an American politician and attorney who has served as the 115th president of the New Jersey Senate since 2022. A member of the Democratic Party, he has held a Senate seat since 2004, representing the 22nd legislative district. Scutari has served as Acting Governor of New Jersey on multiple occasions, the first time being in June 2022.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Sheila Oliver</span> American politician (1952–2023)

    Sheila Yvette Oliver was an American politician who served as the second lieutenant governor of New Jersey from 2018 until her death in 2023. A member of the Democratic Party, Oliver was the first Black woman to serve as lieutenant governor of New Jersey and was the first woman of color elected to statewide office in New Jersey.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">John Wisniewski</span> American politician (born 1962)

    John Scott Wisniewski is an American Democratic Party politician, who served in the New Jersey General Assembly from 1996 to 2018, where he represented the 19th Legislative District. He was a Democratic candidate for Governor of New Jersey in the 2017 election, he lost in the primary election to Phil Murphy.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey</span> Elected official in the U.S. state of New Jersey

    The lieutenant governor of New Jersey is an elected constitutional officer in the executive branch of the state government of New Jersey in the United States. The lieutenant governor is the second highest-ranking official in the state government and is elected concurrently on a ticket with the governor for a four-year term. The position itself does not carry any powers or duties other than to be next in the order of succession, but the state constitution requires that the lieutenant governor also be appointed to serve as the head of a cabinet-level department or administrative agency within the governor's administration, other than the position of Attorney General.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Steven Fulop</span> American politician and mayor of Jersey City since 2013

    Steven Michael Fulop is an American politician serving as the 49th mayor of Jersey City, New Jersey. A Democrat, he was formerly the Councilman for Jersey City's Ward E. On May 14, 2013, Fulop defeated incumbent mayor Jerramiah Healy.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Chris Christie</span> American politician and lawyer (born 1962)

    Christopher James Christie is an American politician and former federal prosecutor who served as the 55th governor of New Jersey from 2010 to 2018. A member of the Republican Party, he was the United States Attorney for New Jersey from 2002 to 2008 and a Morris County commissioner from 1995 to 1997. He was a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016 and 2024.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Kim Guadagno</span> Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey from 2010 to 2018

    Kimberly Ann Guadagno is an American lawyer and politician who served as the first lieutenant governor and 33rd secretary of state of New Jersey from 2010 to 2018.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Jack Ciattarelli</span> American politician and businessman (born 1961)

    Giacchino "Jack" Michael Ciattarelli is an American politician and businessman. A member of the Republican Party, he served in the New Jersey General Assembly from 2011 to 2018, representing the 16th legislative district. He was also the Republican nominee in the 2021 New Jersey gubernatorial election, which he narrowly lost to incumbent Democrat Phil Murphy.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2013 New Jersey gubernatorial election</span>

    The 2013 New Jersey gubernatorial election took place on November 5, 2013, to elect the governor of New Jersey. Incumbent Republican governor Chris Christie ran for re-election to a second term in office. He faced Democratic nominee Barbara Buono and six others in the general election.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2017 United States gubernatorial elections</span>

    United States gubernatorial elections were held on November 7, 2017, in two states: Virginia and New Jersey. These elections formed part of the 2017 United States elections. The last regular gubernatorial elections for these two states were in 2013. Both incumbents were term-limited, so both seats were open. Democrats held the governorship in Virginia and picked up the governorship of New Jersey.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2017 New Jersey gubernatorial election</span>

    The 2017 New Jersey gubernatorial election was held on November 7, 2017, to elect a new governor of New Jersey. Incumbent Republican governor Chris Christie was term-limited and could not seek a third consecutive term.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2018 United States Senate election in New Jersey</span>

    The 2018 United States Senate election in New Jersey took place on November 6, 2018, in order to elect a member of the United States Senate to represent the state of New Jersey. Incumbent Democratic U.S. Senator Bob Menendez won reelection to a third term over Republican businessman Bob Hugin, after the former's criminal trial ended in a mistrial.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2018 United States House of Representatives elections in New Jersey</span>

    The 2018 United States House of Representatives elections in New Jersey were held on November 6, 2018, to elect the 12 U.S. representatives from the state of New Jersey, one from each of the state's 12 congressional districts. The elections coincided with other elections to the House of Representatives, elections to the United States Senate, and various state and local elections.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Tammy Murphy</span> American activist and First Lady of New Jersey

    Tammy Murphy is an American political figure and activist who has been the first lady of New Jersey since 2018. A member of the Democratic Party, she was an unsuccessful candidate in the 2024 United States Senate election in New Jersey to challenge Bob Menendez. She co-owns the professional women's soccer team NJ/NY Gotham FC with her husband, New Jersey governor Phil Murphy, and chairs the organization.

    Douglas Joseph Steinhardt is an American attorney and politician from New Jersey who represents the 23rd legislative district in the New Jersey Senate, since being sworn into office on December 19, 2022. He previously served as the Chairman of the New Jersey Republican State Committee from 2017 to 2020.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2021 United States gubernatorial elections</span>

    United States gubernatorial elections were held on November 2, 2021, in two states, New Jersey and Virginia, and a recall election was held in California on September 14. These elections form part of the 2021 United States elections. The last gubernatorial elections for New Jersey and Virginia were in 2017, and the last regular gubernatorial election for California was in 2018. Going into the elections, all three seats were held by Democrats.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Andy Kim (politician)</span> American politician and diplomat (born 1982)

    Andrew Kim is an American politician and former diplomat who has served as the U.S. representative from New Jersey's 3rd congressional district since 2019. The district encompasses Philadelphia's eastern suburbs along southern and central New Jersey. A member of the Democratic Party, he worked in the U.S. State Department prior to his election to Congress in 2018.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2021 New Jersey gubernatorial election</span>

    The 2021 New Jersey gubernatorial election was held on November 2, 2021, to elect the governor of New Jersey. Incumbent governor Phil Murphy was first elected in 2017 with 56% of the vote and won re-election to a second term. Murphy and his running mate, Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, defeated the Republican ticket of Jack Ciattarelli and Diane Allen, 51.2% to 48%.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">2024 United States Senate election in New Jersey</span>

    The 2024 United States Senate election in New Jersey will be held on November 5, 2024, to elect a member of the United States Senate to represent the state of New Jersey. Democratic congressman Andy Kim and Republican real estate developer Curtis Bashaw are seeking their first term in office. The winner will succeed Democratic interim appointee George Helmy, who is serving as a caretaker for Democrat Bob Menendez's third term. The winner will assume office in late November after the election is certified in order to give an advantage in seniority.

    References

    1. "Our Campaigns - Candidate - Philip D. Murphy". Ourcampaigns.com. Archived from the original on December 1, 2017. Retrieved November 19, 2017.
    2. 1 2 3 4 5 6 "Board Member Philip D. Murphy". www.naacp.org. Archived from the original on June 5, 2016. Retrieved May 17, 2016.
    3. CatsLabs. "DNC Organization-2007 Edition". p2008.org. Archived from the original on April 1, 2018. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    4. "DNC Finance team set". Politico . February 3, 2009. Archived from the original on September 22, 2018. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    5. 1 2 Finnigan, Brandon (June 6, 2017). "New Jersey Gubernatorial Primary (Democratic)". Decision Desk HQ. Archived from the original on October 23, 2017. Retrieved June 7, 2017.
    6. Johnson, Brent; Arco, Matt (November 29, 2019). "Murphy prepares for a national role in Trump's re-election year, but says he will keep his focus on N.J." nj.com . Archived from the original on May 2, 2020. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
    7. Salant, Jonathan D. (December 3, 2020). "Murphy stepping down as Democratic governors chair". nj.com . Archived from the original on December 24, 2020. Retrieved March 14, 2021.
    8. "Phil Murphy wins reelection for governor in NJ over Jack Ciattarelli". WABC-TV . November 3, 2021. Archived from the original on November 3, 2021. Retrieved November 4, 2021.
    9. Rizzo, Salvador (June 7, 2017). "On Murphy's Road to Victory, No Stone Left Unturned". The New York Observer . Archived from the original on October 22, 2017. Retrieved October 21, 2017.
    10. 1 2 3 4 "Likely Democratic candidate for N.J. governor buys ad touting middle-class". nj.com. September 29, 2015. Archived from the original on May 8, 2016. Retrieved May 17, 2016.
    11. 1 2 Quigley, Joan. "Phil Murphy: A big smile and, big plans for New Jersey". nj.com . Archived from the original on August 19, 2017. Retrieved June 27, 2017.
    12. 1 2 3 4 5 Racioppi, Dustin (June 8, 2017). "Guadagno, Murphy race rooted in the past". Asbury Park Press . p. 9A.
    13. Racioppi, Dustin (November 8, 2017). "Meet your next N.J. governor, Phil Murphy". North Jersey. Archived from the original on November 9, 2017. Retrieved November 9, 2017.
    14. "Dorothy Louise (Dunton) Murphy's Obituary on Boston Globe". Boston Globe. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved November 9, 2017.
    15. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 "Phil Murphy: May River Road Rise Up to Meet Him". The Two River Times . February 26, 2015. Archived from the original on May 4, 2017. Retrieved June 27, 2017.
    16. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 "Former ambassador to Germany seriously considers bid for NJ governor". May 21, 2014. Archived from the original on July 23, 2016. Retrieved September 21, 2016.
    17. 1 2 3 4 5 "An Interview with Philip D. Murphy, U.S. Ambassador to Germany - The Politic". Archived from the original on July 3, 2015. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    18. "Needham Native Phil Murphy Wins NJ Governor's Race". Needham, MA Patch. November 8, 2017. Archived from the original on November 9, 2020. Retrieved March 14, 2021.
    19. 1 2 3 "Wall Street to Wikileaks: 7 facts about gubernatorial hopeful Phil Murphy". nj.com . May 17, 2016. Archived from the original on September 27, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    20. 1 2 3 "Embassy of the United States - Berlin, Germany: Homepage". Archived from the original on October 2, 2009. Retrieved August 24, 2009. - As it was on August 21, 2009, during Murphy's time as Ambassador to Germany
    21. "Murphy Bio". Archived from the original on October 14, 2016.
    22. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 "Ambassador to Germany: Who is Philip Murphy?". Archived from the original on October 3, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    23. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 "Can a Sanders Democrat Win the New Jersey Governor's Race?". The Nation . ISSN   0027-8378. Archived from the original on May 29, 2017. Retrieved June 27, 2017.
    24. 1 2 3 Germany, Spiegel Online, Hamburg (May 20, 2009). "Diplomatic Poker: Ex-Banker Expected to Be Named US Ambassador in Berlin - Spiegel Online". Der Spiegel. Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved August 19, 2017.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
    25. 1 2 "Benefits Review Task Force". nj.com . Archived from the original on December 3, 2008. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    26. 1 2 "Murphy rival: He profited from slave labor at Goldman". June 3, 2017. Archived from the original on June 5, 2017. Retrieved June 4, 2017. Research by NJ Advance Media
    27. 1 2 3 4 5 chief, Nina Easton, Fortune Washington bureau. "Philip Murphy goes to Washington - Oct. 11, 2007". Archived from the original on September 27, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
    28. 1 2 3 4 Chen, David W. (December 4, 2005). "In Task Force Report, a Challenge - NYTimes.com". The New York Times. Archived from the original on October 31, 2017. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    29. "Benefits Review Task Force". Archived from the original on March 24, 2018. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    30. "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on September 27, 2016. Retrieved September 25, 2016.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
    31. 1 2 "Howard Dean's guy". Archived from the original on June 11, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    32. 1 2 3 "Philip Murphy, New Ambassador to Germany, Gave Big to Democrats". July 10, 2009. Archived from the original on February 1, 2017. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    33. "President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 7-9-09". whitehouse.gov . July 9, 2009. Archived from the original on February 16, 2017. Retrieved September 21, 2016 via National Archives.
    34. 1 2 Germany, Spiegel Online, Hamburg (July 2, 2009). "He's Willkommen in Germany: Berlin Gives Green Light to Obama's Ambassador Pick - Spiegel Online". Der Spiegel. Archived from the original on November 20, 2016. Retrieved July 27, 2017.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
    35. 1 2 3 "Murphy will be sworn in as U.S. Ambassador to Germany on Sunday; Fishman still awaits action; Rumors on Steinberg's successor". The New York Observer . September 9, 2009. Archived from the original on August 5, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    36. Weisenthal, Joe (April 17, 2010). "Meet America's Ambassador To Germany -- Guess Which Fraud-Accused Bank He Used To Work For". Business Insider . Archived from the original on August 5, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    37. 1 2 3 4 "Murphy, Philip D." Archived from the original on August 22, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    38. 1 2 "Philip D. Murphy - People - Department History - Office of the Historian". Archived from the original on December 20, 2016. Retrieved December 6, 2016. State Department Historian page for Murphy
    39. 1 2 "Goodbye-Philip-Murphy - Global Success". Archived from the original on October 28, 2016. Retrieved September 30, 2016.
    40. 1 2 3 Moore, Tristana (November 29, 2010). "German-U.S. Relations Will Survive WikiLeaks — but the Trust Is Gone". Time. ISSN   0040-781X. Archived from the original on September 17, 2016. Retrieved September 21, 2016.
    41. Malzahn, Claus Christian (December 5, 2010). "Die Verräter werden zu Gejagten". Welt am Sonntag (in German). Berlin: Axel Springer SE. Archived from the original on June 25, 2018. Retrieved October 19, 2018. I am really shaken and angry that this leak has arisen. And I apologize for it everywhere.
    42. 1 2 3 "Berlin Wall anniversary resonates with Middletown's Murphy". Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    43. "U.S. Ambassador Philip Murphy leaves Germany" (PDF). 2009-2017.state.gov. Archived (PDF) from the original on August 6, 2020. Retrieved June 24, 2017.
    44. "Op-Ed: Handicapping the 2013 NJ Gubernatorial Race". August 31, 2011. Archived from the original on May 4, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    45. Archived May 15, 2016, at the Wayback Machine New Start New Jersey
    46. "Phillips Academy - Charter Trustee: Tammy Snyder Murphy '83". Archived from the original on May 28, 2010. Retrieved November 9, 2017.
    47. 1 2 3 Friedman, Matt (July 24, 2015). "Phil Murphy, likely N.J. gubernatorial candidate, gets a super PAC". Politico . Archived from the original on October 8, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    48. "In Wikileaks Emails, a Glimpse of Phil Murphy's Campaign for Governor". Archived from the original on August 19, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    49. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 "Phil Murphy becomes first major candidate to declare run for governor". Politico . May 16, 2016. Archived from the original on October 5, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    50. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on June 29, 2016. Retrieved May 17, 2016.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) New Way for New Jersey
    51. Alfaro, Alyana (March 4, 2016). "Petition Calling for Christie's Resignation Balloons". Observer. Archived from the original on September 24, 2016. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
    52. 1 2 3 "Phil Murphy Becomes First Candidate in 2017 Governor's Race - Video - NJTV News". Archived from the original on October 22, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    53. Campaign mailer, late May 2016.
    54. 1 2 3 "Phil Murphy's Tough Sell: Goldman Pedigree, But No Corzine Clone". Bloomberg.com. May 31, 2016. Archived from the original on June 22, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016 via www.bloomberg.com.
    55. "Brutal Journal Story Paints Philip Murphy as Elitist Dandy". December 21, 2014. Archived from the original on August 15, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    56. "Murphy Said He Holds His Campaign to a 'Higher Standard' Than Others". June 30, 2016. Archived from the original on August 13, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    57. "Christie news means little for Fulop's 2017 ambitions, experts say". June 30, 2015. Archived from the original on March 8, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    58. 1 2 "Fulop won't run for N.J. governor, a 'game-changer' for 2017 race to succeed Christie". New Jersey.com. September 28, 2016. Archived from the original on October 1, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    59. 1 2 "Into the Bowels of 2017: The Unfolding NJ Dem Party Gov. Race Backs Drama". The New York Observer . August 19, 2016. Archived from the original on September 22, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    60. 1 2 "Sweeney says he won't run for Governor". nj.com. October 6, 2016. Archived from the original on October 9, 2016. Retrieved October 7, 2016.
    61. "Murphy racks up endorsements; Sweeney exits race for governor". Courier Post. June 10, 2016. Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    62. "Sweeney drops his bid for governor as Murphy rides high", Asbury Park Press, October 7, 2016, pp. 1A, 2A.
    63. Emailcast from Phil Murphy, "I Refuse to be Discouraged", November 10, 2016.
    64. "Guadagno accuses Murphy of comparing Trump to Hitler". February 22, 2017. Archived from the original on March 21, 2017. Retrieved March 5, 2017.
    65. Martin, Jonathan; Burns, Alexander (February 23, 2017). "Trump campaign". The New York Times. Archived from the original on January 3, 2018.
    66. "Bridgegate Crusader John Wisniewski to Run For NJ Governor". November 15, 2016. Archived from the original on August 20, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    67. Email, "I'm running for Governor of New Jersey", November 15, 2016.
    68. "NJ Senators Menendez and Booker Endorse Murphy for Governor". The New York Observer . January 9, 2017. Archived from the original on August 20, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    69. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Charles Stile, "For gubernatorial hopefuls, a chance to flex new identities," Asbury Park Press, May 30, 2017, page 1.
    70. 1 2 Nick Corasaniti, "New Jersey's Primary Nears With Many Voters Tuned Out," New York Times, June 5, 2017, p. A17.
    71. "Who? Candidates to be NJ governor 'all but anonymous,' poll finds". February 2017. Archived from the original on February 12, 2017. Retrieved February 11, 2017.
    72. Gaul, Jerry (February 9, 2017). "Latest poll reveals uncertainty in race for New Jersey governor". PhillyVoice. Archived from the original on February 12, 2017. Retrieved February 11, 2017.
    73. "Winners and Losers: The Week of the Primary Debate Deluge". The New York Observer . May 12, 2017. Archived from the original on August 19, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    74. 1 2 "Three against one: Democratic rivals pile on Murphy during second debate". Politico . May 11, 2017. Archived from the original on August 19, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    75. 1 2 "NJ's next governor: Phil Murphy or Kim Guadagno". Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    76. "Stockton Poll: Murphy, Guadagno Lead in Primary Races for New Jersey Governor - News - Stockton University". stockton.edu. Archived from the original on August 20, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    77. writer, David Levinsky, staff. "Poll: Kim Guadagno, Phil Murphy still leading in primaries". Archived from the original on June 23, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
    78. "Joe Biden to visit N.J. to campaign for Phil Murphy". May 16, 2017. Archived from the original on July 29, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    79. "Al Gore Endorses Murphy for NJ Governor". The New York Observer . May 17, 2017. Archived from the original on August 19, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    80. Westhoven, William. "Bon Jovi, Whoopi back Phil Murphy in Morristown". Daily Record. Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    81. "Phil Murphy wins Democratic nod in fight to succeed Christie as N.J. governor". June 7, 2017. Archived from the original on August 20, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    82. 1 2 "New Jersey Primary Results: Murphy Will Face Guadagno in Governor's Race". The New York Times . Archived from the original on June 7, 2017. Retrieved June 7, 2017.
    83. 1 2 Corasaniti, Nick (June 25, 2017). "Rare G.O.P. Species Runs for New Jersey Governor: A Moderate". The New York Times. Archived from the original on June 26, 2017. Retrieved June 26, 2017.
    84. "Phil Murphy and Sheila Oliver, Two Faces of the Democratic Party". MSN . Archived from the original on August 10, 2017. Retrieved July 26, 2017.
    85. "Phil Murphy's opening bid: A promising plan on economy", Tom Moran, Star-Ledger, September 2016.
    86. "NJ guv hopeful Phil Murphy engages folks at TCNJ". October 17, 2016. Archived from the original on August 19, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    87. 1 2 Marans, Daniel (June 4, 2017). "New Jersey Democrat Faces Criticism For Goldman Sachs Investment In Abusive Company". Archived from the original on January 4, 2018. Retrieved May 9, 2024 via Huff Post.
    88. "Phil Murphy just unveiled a plan to make Wall St. clean up N.J. home foreclosures". March 22, 2017. Archived from the original on August 20, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    89. Johnson, Brett (January 16, 2018). "Phil Murphy sworn in, replaces Chris Christie as N.J. governor". NJ.com. Archived from the original on January 16, 2018. Retrieved January 17, 2018.
    90. "Phil Murphy jump-starts a windmill energy program Christie shelved". NJ.com. January 31, 2018. Archived from the original on February 3, 2018. Retrieved February 9, 2018.
    91. "Breaking with Trump, N.J. buys into Paris Climate Accord". February 22, 2018. Archived from the original on February 26, 2018. Retrieved March 10, 2018.
    92. "N.J. enlists in fight against Trump to protect clean water". NJ.com. February 7, 2018. Archived from the original on February 9, 2018. Retrieved February 9, 2018.
    93. Arco, Matt (April 16, 2018). "A lot more people in N.J. will be registered to vote soon. Here's why". NJ.com. Archived from the original on May 2, 2019. Retrieved May 2, 2019.
    94. "Phil Murphy signs N.J. sports betting law. You can start betting on Thursday". June 11, 2018. Archived from the original on June 15, 2018. Retrieved June 26, 2018.
    95. Johnson, Brent (December 20, 2018). "Gov. Murphy just signed a law to help fix troubled NJ Transit. But he's not sure about possible fare hikes". NJ.com. Archived from the original on May 4, 2019. Retrieved May 2, 2019.
    96. NJ.com, Susan K. Livio | NJ Advance Media for (May 14, 2019). "What you should know about N.J.'s tough new law giving sexual assault victims more time to sue their abusers". nj. Archived from the original on June 9, 2020. Retrieved July 10, 2020.
    97. Sullivan, S. P. (July 11, 2019). "Murphy signs law limiting solitary confinement in N.J. prisons". nj.com. Archived from the original on February 6, 2024. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    98. Johnson, Brent; Warren, Michael Sol (October 10, 2019). "After months of prodding, Murphy says he doesn't want huge Meadowlands power plant project". nj. Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    99. NJ.com, Brent Johnson | NJ Advance Media for (March 21, 2020). "Murphy orders N.J. residents to stay home, closes non-essential retail businesses in state lockdown to fight coronavirus". nj. Archived from the original on July 11, 2020. Retrieved July 10, 2020.
    100. NJ.com, Matt Arco | NJ Advance Media for (June 29, 2020). "N.J. restaurants NOT reopening for indoor dining this week after 'knucklehead' crowds at bars ruin it for everyone". nj. Archived from the original on July 10, 2020. Retrieved July 10, 2020.
    101. NJ.com, Brent Johnson | NJ Advance Media for (July 8, 2020). "Here are the exceptions to Murphy's new outdoor mask rule in N.J." nj. Archived from the original on July 9, 2020. Retrieved July 10, 2020.
    102. Arco, Matt (July 24, 2020). "N.J. coronavirus deaths rise to 15,765 with 178,345 cases as transmission rate remains steady". NJ.com . Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2023.
    103. 1 2 Johnson, Brent (January 17, 2020). "Murphy holding off on endorsing another presidential candidate after Booker dropped out". NJ.com . Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2023.
    104. Salant, Jonathan (May 15, 2020). "Murphy finally endorses Biden for president. Then they talk about the coronavirus crisis". NJ.com . Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2023.
    105. Wood, Sam. "N.J. Gov. Murphy signs bills to legalize adult-use cannabis in the Garden State". www.inquirer.com. Archived from the original on May 5, 2023. Retrieved May 5, 2023.
    106. Sutton, Sam. "New Jersey legalizes cannabis after years of failed efforts and toxic negotiations". POLITICO. Retrieved May 5, 2023.
    107. "Gov. Murphy ends N.J.'s COVID health emergency. Here are the powers he loses and keeps". June 4, 2021. Archived from the original on November 28, 2023. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    108. Johnson, Brent (December 21, 2021). "Murphy says N.J. will do 'everything we can' to keep schools in person as COVID cases surge". NJ.com . Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2023.
    109. Wildstein, David (October 1, 2020). "Murphy formally launches bid for 2nd term as governor, will run with Oliver". New Jersey Globe . Sea of Reeds Media. Archived from the original on November 3, 2021. Retrieved November 9, 2020.
    110. Martinka, Ryan (November 3, 2021). "First GOP challenger announces run to unseat NJ Gov. Phil Murphy". NorthJersey.com . Archived from the original on May 6, 2022. Retrieved November 3, 2021.
    111. Steele, Allison (October 28, 2021). "New Jersey hasn't reelected a Democratic governor in 44 years. Gov. Phil Murphy says he'll break the curse". The Philadelphia Inquirer . Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved November 3, 2021.
    112. NJ.com, Tina Kelley | NJ Advance Media for; NJ.com, Matt Arco | NJ Advance Media for; NJ.com, Brent Johnson | NJ Advance Media for (April 10, 2023). "Rutgers strike: Gov. Murphy gets involved in talks, wants to 'lock the door' until there's a settlement". nj. Archived from the original on April 10, 2023. Retrieved April 10, 2023.
    113. "Rutgers University reaches deal with faculty unions to end historic strike". NBC News. April 15, 2023. Archived from the original on April 16, 2023. Retrieved April 16, 2023.
    114. "N.J. Gov. Murphy prioritizes transgender rights as conservative states enact restrictions". Archived from the original on April 6, 2023. Retrieved April 5, 2023.
    115. "New Jersey files suit to stop NYC congestion charge". East Bay Times . July 21, 2023. Archived from the original on July 22, 2023. Retrieved July 21, 2023.
    116. 1 2 "In War on Congestion Pricing, Governor Turns to Courts and Trash Talk". The New York Times . August 7, 2023. Archived from the original on January 5, 2024. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    117. "Governor Murphy Announces Lawsuit to Block New York's Proposed Congestion Tolling Program". MSN . July 21, 2023. Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved July 21, 2023.
    118. Wildstein, David (August 1, 2023). "Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver dies at 71". New Jersey Globe. Archived from the original on August 2, 2023. Retrieved August 1, 2023.
    119. "New Jersey's acting governor taken to hospital for undisclosed medical care". Associated Press . Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved August 1, 2023.
    120. Vadala, Nick. "N.J. Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver, acting as governor with Murphy out of the country, is hospitalized". The Philadelphia Inquirer . Archived from the original on August 8, 2023. Retrieved August 1, 2023.
    121. Wildstein, David (September 7, 2023). "Murphy chooses Tahesha Way as Lt. Governor". New Jersey Globe. Archived from the original on September 7, 2023. Retrieved September 7, 2023.
    122. Hetrick, Christian (April 11, 2018). "Poll: Gov. Phil Murphy Has a 44 Percent Job Approval Rating". Observer. Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2023.
    123. Friedman, Matt (February 12, 2019). "Poll: Murphy's approval flat as disapproval rating increases". Politico . Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2023.
    124. Leins, Casey (July 19, 2019). "The Most Popular and Least Popular Governors". U.S. News & World Report . Archived from the original on July 22, 2019. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    125. Hutchins, Ryan (September 17, 2019). "Monmouth poll: Murphy approval, now at 41 percent, hardly changed all year". Politico . Archived from the original on February 7, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2023.
    126. Arco, Matt (July 16, 2020). "Gov. Phil Murphy's job approval rating remains near all-time highs during coronavirus crisis, poll shows". NJ.com . Archived from the original on February 8, 2023. Retrieved February 7, 2023.
    127. Johnson, Brent (October 17, 2020). "Gov. Murphy earns high marks from New Jerseyans in another poll". NJ.com . Archived from the original on May 15, 2023. Retrieved May 15, 2023.
    128. Johnson, Brent (November 18, 2020). "Gov. Murphy's voter approval dips but remains high going into his re-election year". NJ.com . Archived from the original on May 15, 2023. Retrieved May 15, 2023.
    129. Fazelpoor, Matthew (May 26, 2023). "Rutgers-Eagleton poll asks: How's Murphy doing?". NJBIZ. Archived from the original on November 16, 2023. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    130. "Slight Dip in Murphy Ratings". Monmouth University Polling Institute. August 16, 2023. Archived from the original on December 5, 2023. Retrieved May 9, 2024.
    131. "Recognition dinner photos". Archived from the original on April 30, 2009. Retrieved January 29, 2013.
    132. Richard, Alan (April 28, 2004). "Education Week". mobile.edweek.org. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    133. 1 2 3 "National Education Task Force Says Students Must Spend More Time in School - Center for American Progress". Center for American Progress. August 23, 2005. Archived from the original on January 13, 2017. Retrieved June 27, 2017.
    134. 1 2 3 4 "Gubernatorial Candidate Phil Murphy Releases Tax Returns - Video - NJTV News". Archived from the original on October 2, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
    135. Linehan, Meg. "Gotham FC went from 'turbulence' to triumph, showing value of ongoing investment". The Athletic. Archived from the original on April 20, 2024. Retrieved April 20, 2024.
    136. Badenhausen, Kurt (September 25, 2024). "NWSL Team Values 2024: Angel City, KC Lead, Average Up 57% to $104M". Sportico.com. Retrieved September 25, 2024.
    137. Hamilton: Honorary Degree Recipients: 2015, accessed December 24, 2016.
    138. "2019 Honorary Degree Recipients | University Commencement". commencement.rutgers.edu. Archived from the original on August 13, 2019. Retrieved June 3, 2019.
    139. "Rede: Bundesverdienstorden für Philip Murphy". Der Bundespräsident (in German). November 22, 2022. Archived from the original on December 1, 2022. Retrieved December 1, 2022.
    140. "Tammy Snyder Murphy". www.nsnj.org. Archived from the original on November 10, 2017. Retrieved November 9, 2017.
    141. "Phillips Academy - Charter Trustee: Tammy Snyder Murphy '83". May 28, 2010. Archived from the original on May 28, 2010. Retrieved November 9, 2017.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
    142. "Life on N.J. pro soccer club owned by Gov. Murphy is sad and bleak, players allege" Archived August 4, 2023, at the Wayback Machine NJ.com. Published July 17, 2018.
    143. "How Phil Murphy went from cancer surgery to meeting the challenge of his political life during coronavirus crisis". NJ.com. March 31, 2020. Archived from the original on May 16, 2020. Retrieved May 20, 2020.
    144. "Cancer Doctor Says New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy Very Fortunate Kidney Tumor Detected Early". CBS. March 4, 2020. Archived from the original on May 9, 2024. Retrieved May 20, 2020.
    145. 1 2 Alfaro, Alyana (May 23, 2016). "Phil Murphy Releases Tax Returns from Past Five Years". The New York Observer . Archived from the original on August 19, 2017. Retrieved August 19, 2017.
    146. "Official List, Candidates for Governor For GENERAL ELECTION 11/07/2017 Election" (PDF). Secretary of State of New Jersey. November 29, 2017. Archived from the original (PDF) on December 1, 2017. Retrieved November 29, 2017.

    Further reading

    Diplomatic posts
    Preceded by United States Ambassador to Germany
    2009–2013
    Succeeded by
    Party political offices
    Preceded by Democratic nominee for Governor of New Jersey
    2017, 2021
    Most recent
    Preceded by Chair of the Democratic Governors Association
    2019–2020
    Succeeded by
    Preceded by Chair of the Democratic Governors Association
    2022–2023
    Succeeded by
    Political offices
    Preceded by Governor of New Jersey
    2018–present
    Incumbent
    Preceded by Chair of the National Governors Association
    2022–2023
    Succeeded by
    U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
    Preceded byas Vice President Order of precedence of the United States
    Within New Jersey
    Succeeded by
    Mayor of city
    in which event is held
    Succeeded by
    Otherwise Mike Johnson
    as Speaker of the House
    Preceded byas Governor of Pennsylvania Order of precedence of the United States
    Outside New Jersey
    Succeeded byas Governor of Georgia