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This Week in New Jersey - November 8, 2024

Government and Politics

November 8, 2024

From: New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy

Governor Murphy Delivers Remarks on the 2024 Election Results

Governor Murphy held a press conference reflecting on the results of the 2024 election and the path forward for the Murphy Administration. Following are the excerpts from his remarks: 

"The hallmark of our American democracy has always been our commitment to free and fair elections. It is the people, not the powerful, who choose our leaders. And the American people have spoken."

"As Governor, I serve all New Jerseyans, no matter who they voted for. Just as I have worked to better the lives of the 4.5 million New Jerseyans who voted in 2020, ... I will serve all New Jerseyans with the same commitment after this election."

"Our commitment, again, is not to any person or party, but to the people of New Jersey and to the rule of law."

"If there is any attack on the Garden State or on any of its communities from Washington, I will fight back with every fiber of my being."

"... we have faced extreme adversity before, and when we refused to give in, we have emerged tougher."

"I know it may sound counterintuitive at a moment such as this—but this is a nation that celebrates what unites us as much as what sets us apart."

"America demands work from each successive generation. It demands we be active citizens. It is not easy. No one ever said it would be. But it is good and noble work, that is worth doing."

"At a time of such great division in our nation, when the bonds between our fellow citizens have grown so frayed, let New Jersey be united in making our state, and as a model, indeed, our nation, the best place to live, work, and raise a family."

"The people of New Jersey have never stopped believing in our great American experiment. And today is no exception."

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First Lady Tammy Murphy Honors Día de Muertos at Drumthwacket

First Lady Tammy Murphy hosted an intimate Día de Muertos commemoration at Drumthwacket, marking the first time this holiday has been celebrated at The People’s House. The First Lady was joined by Mariana Díaz Nagore, the Head Consul of the Consulate of Mexico in New Brunswick, and prominent leaders from New Jersey’s Mexican and Latino communities.

“New Jersey is home to an incredibly strong and vibrant Mexican American community, which is why I wanted to open Drumthwacket – the People’s House – to both celebrate Día de Muertos and acknowledge the rich contributions of our state’s Mexican and Latino residents,” said First Lady Tammy Murphy. “Día de Muertos is a special time to come together with friends and family to reflect, connect with our ancestors, and remember loved ones who have passed. We were honored to mark this beautiful holiday and, when we looked at the altar, Phil and I truly felt the presence of our loved ones.”

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New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education Awards Hunger-Free Campus Act Grants

The New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) announced the award of $1.2 million in Hunger-Free Campus Act grants to 34 institutions of higher education across the state. Program applications increased by 150 percent this cycle amid OSHE estimates from a spring 2024 survey suggesting more than one in three New Jersey students lack consistent access to adequate food resources. This year’s competitive grant cycle reflects the urgent need to provide resources for students facing food insecurity statewide.

“The Hunger-Free Campus grants reflect New Jersey’s continued commitment to supporting students and fighting hunger,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “We want every college student to have the support they need to reach their full potential, and addressing food insecurity is essential to achieving that goal. I am proud of New Jersey’s leadership in creating a model that serves our diverse campuses and builds on the foundation laid by New Jersey’s HungerFree Campus Act.” 

“Food insecurity is a reality for far too many students all across New Jersey and it is an issue that, with the help of state leaders like Speaker Coughlin, the Murphy Administration has been determined to address,” said Secretary of Higher Education Brian K. Bridges. “We know college students facing food insecurity are significantly less likely to graduate than their food-secure peers. By ensuring the availability of resources for students attending our state’s institutions, we are working so that hunger is never a barrier to their success.”

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Justin Zimmerman Sworn In as Commissioner of New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance

Justin Zimmerman was sworn in as Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance on Monday, November 4 in a ceremonial swearing-in hosted by Governor Phil Murphy at the State House.

Commissioner Zimmerman had been serving as Acting Commissioner since June 27, 2023. The State Senate unanimously confirmed his nomination on October 28, 2024. 

“Under Justin Zimmerman’s outstanding leadership, the Department has continued its strong regulation of the banking, insurance, and real estate industries while protecting the interests of consumers,” said Governor Murphy. “His dedication to the implementation and successful growth of Get Covered New Jersey has resulted in hundreds of thousands of New Jersey families finding quality, affordable health coverage that fits their needs and budgets. I am confident he will continue to do an exceptional job leading the Department.”

“I am incredibly grateful to Governor Murphy for this opportunity. I have been honored and privileged every day to be part of this Administration, and to lead this department and work alongside the dedicated and committed staff,” said Commissioner Justin Zimmerman. “The impact the department has on the lives of our residents is significant. From protecting consumers and providing quality affordable, health coverage through Get Covered New Jersey to safeguarding the solvency, safety, and soundness of our regulated entities through regular examinations and analysis, New Jersey consumers are always front of mind in the work we do.”

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