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Anticipated Murphy Administration Response to Changing Federal Priorities
While the Trump administration is expected to focus its deregulatory efforts on climate policies advanced during the Biden presidency, Governor Phil Murphy has signaled an intent to remain committed to addressing the impacts of climate change in the State of New Jersey.
Historically, New Jersey has faced the direct effects of climate change, from devastating hurricanes and flooding to the state’s most severe drought in 120 years this past summer. Murphy’s governance has been marked by a stated commitment to enhancing the state’s climate resilience, including setting a benchmark for New Jersey to reach 100 percent renewable energy by 2035. However, the potential impact of a second Trump administration, particularly on infrastructure and clean energy projects that involve federal funding and approvals, is still uncertain.
In a recent press conference, Governor Murphy reaffirmed his commitment to upholding his environmental agenda in 2025 and beyond through state-led policies. The Governor stated that "now more than ever, New Jersey’s commitment to combating and adapting to climate change is unwavering. Regardless of which administration is in power at the federal level, our state is not going to back down. We’re going to do everything we can to reduce emissions, protect our precious environment and build a more sustainable future." Still, Governor Murphy made it clear that he intends to work with the Trump administration wherever possible, vowing to seize any opportunity to reach common ground.
