New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy faced criticism for not returning to the state following a significant earthquake that occurred on Friday. U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew expressed disappointment over Murphy's absence, noting that the governor did not issue an on-camera address to residents but instead gave interviews to media outlets. Van Drew highlighted that residents had to seek guidance from New York officials during the natural disaster, as Murphy was not present in New Jersey.
Van Drew emphasized that Murphy's presence would have reassured residents about their safety and demonstrated leadership during a crisis. He suggested that Murphy could have taken a brief break from the Democratic convention he was attending to address the earthquake situation in New Jersey. Van Drew underscored the importance of leaders being present for their constituents in times of need.
The earthquake, centered in Lebanon, New Jersey, impacted residents in the northwestern part of the state. Van Drew criticized Murphy for prioritizing political engagements over responding to the needs of New Jersey residents. He suggested that Murphy's return to the state would have been a symbolic gesture of support and reassurance for those affected by the earthquake.
