The MeidasTouch Podcast: Governor Murphy Responds to Trump DOJ Threat

Release Date: April 11, 2025

Host: Ben Meiselas
Guest: Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey
Episode Title: Governor Murphy Responds to Trump DOJ Threat

Introduction

In this gripping episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, host Ben Meiselas engages in a compelling conversation with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. The discussion centers around recent confrontations between Governor Murphy and interim U.S. Attorney Alina Haba, economic turmoil, international relations, and shifting political landscapes in New Jersey.

Alina Haba’s Accusations and Governor Murphy’s Response

Timestamp [00:30 - 02:27]

The episode kicks off with Ben addressing a provocative statement made by interim U.S. Attorney Alina Haba. Haba publicly accused Governor Murphy of obstructing federal law enforcement efforts related to illegal immigration and criminal activities.

Alina Haba’s Statement [00:46]:

“I have instructed my office today to open an investigation into Governor Murphy...anybody who does get in that way...will be charged in the state of New Jersey for obstruction...”
(00:46)

Ben’s Question [02:14]:

“Governor, a federal prosecutor, interim United States attorney Alina Haba says she's coming at you hard and she announced on Fox a criminal investigation of a state. Governor, what's your reaction to that?”
(02:14)

Governor Murphy’s Response [02:27]:

“We are guided by something called an immigrant trust directive...we go after criminals hard, period, full stop, regardless of their immigration status.”
(02:27)

Governor Murphy defends his administration’s policies, emphasizing a balanced approach that targets serious crimes without overstepping into immigration enforcement unless linked to criminal activity. He highlights New Jersey's success in maintaining low crime rates through effective cooperation with federal authorities.

Cooperation with Federal Authorities

Timestamp [04:17 - 05:56]

Ben underscores the importance of state and federal partnerships in combating crime, questioning Haba's approach of public confrontation.

Ben’s Observation [04:17]:

“The very first action when she's named interim United States Attorney is to flip that upside down...that's not going to help crime.”
(04:17)

Governor Murphy’s Clarification [04:58]:

“We cooperate regularly, frankly, daily with federal authorities...I personally host an annual dinner of all of our partners, including NYPD, Pennsylvania representatives, Delaware...”
(04:58)

Murphy elaborates on the robust collaboration between New Jersey’s law enforcement and federal agencies, asserting that these relationships are foundational to the state’s safety and low crime rates.

Economic Turmoil and Market Volatility

Timestamp [05:56 - 09:29]

The conversation shifts to the chaotic economic landscape marked by fluctuating tariffs, volatile currency markets, and unstable bond yields.

Ben’s Concern [05:56]:

“Tariffs on, tariffs off, tariffs increased...the bond markets are imploding...this daily chaos, it's unlike anything we've seen.”
(05:56)

Governor Murphy’s Analysis [06:35]:

“This is a series of unforced errors...The execution, if it remains at this level of volatility and chaos, I think you're just going to see more and more folks...saying, I didn't sign up for this and I'm not going to stand it any longer.”
(06:35)

Murphy criticizes the current administration’s economic policies as poorly executed, leading to market instability. He advocates for secure borders, government efficiency, and onshoring manufacturing jobs as solutions to mitigate economic chaos.

Impact on International Relationships and Allies

Timestamp [09:29 - 10:55]

The discussion delves into the strain on international alliances, particularly with European partners like Germany, amid shifting geopolitical stances.

Ben’s Observation [09:29]:

“Statements coming out...America's not reliable. We need to live in a world without them...those are the statements coming out...”
(09:29)

Governor Murphy’s Concern [10:11]:

“It's going to be hard if not impossible...It's a complete shame at the moment and I pray that we get a lot less volatility and a lot more trust into the system asap.”
(10:11)

Murphy expresses deep concern over the deterioration of trust between the U.S. and its allies, emphasizing the need for stability and reliable international partnerships to maintain global security and economic prosperity.

Political Shifts and Election Insights in New Jersey

Timestamp [10:55 - 16:19]

Ben and Governor Murphy explore the political shifts in New Jersey, especially in the aftermath of the 2024 elections, and the implications for future governance.

Ben’s Inquiry [10:55]:

“Are you seeing shifts? What are you seeing on the ground there?”
(10:55)

Governor Murphy’s Response [11:35 - 16:08]:

“Last year, President Trump shrunk his loss margin by almost 12 points in New Jersey...we lost the election in November...now starting to see [public enthusiasm] and it's palpable.”
(11:35)

Murphy discusses the narrowing political margins in New Jersey, attributing it to a broader national trend of Republican resurgence and voter realignment. He notes increased public activism and protests, reminiscent of the 2018 cycle, indicating a growing dissatisfaction with current political volatility.

Key Insights:

• Republican Strategies: Republicans have been actively registering Democrats, altering the political landscape.
• Public Protests: Significant turnout in protests signals rising public discontent.
• Election Dynamics: Murphy highlights the unpredictability of upcoming elections, emphasizing the importance of stable governance.

Governor Murphy’s Optimism [16:08]:

“I think you're just going to see more and more folks, including folks who are not Democrats, just reasonable Americans coming out of the woodwork...”
(16:08)

Despite challenges, Murphy remains optimistic about increased civic engagement and the potential for positive political change.

Closing Remarks

Timestamp [16:08 - 16:26]

The episode concludes with mutual appreciation between Ben and Governor Murphy, hinting at future engagements.

Ben’s Farewell [16:08]:

“Governor Phil Murphy, thank you so much for joining us. First time on the MeidasTouch Network?”
(16:08)

Governor Murphy’s Reply [16:12]:

“I hope not the last, Ben.”
(16:12)

Ben expresses his gratitude, underscoring the significance of Governor Murphy’s insights for the MeidasTouch audience.

Notable Quotes

• Governor Phil Murphy on Cooperation:
  “We go after criminals hard, period, full stop, regardless of their immigration status.”
  (02:27)

• Governor Murphy on Economic Execution:
  “The execution, if it remains at this level of volatility and chaos, I think you're just going to see more and more folks...saying, I didn't sign up for this and I'm not going to stand it any longer.”
  (06:35)

• Governor Murphy on International Trust:
  “It's a complete shame at the moment and I pray that we get a lot less volatility and a lot more trust into the system asap.”
  (10:11)

• Governor Murphy on Political Shifts:
  “I think you're just going to see more and more folks, including folks who are not Democrats, just reasonable Americans coming out of the woodwork...”
  (16:08)

Conclusion

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast provides a thorough exploration of the complex interplay between state governance, federal authority, economic policy, and international relations through the lens of Governor Phil Murphy. His candid responses offer valuable insights into the challenges and strategies shaping New Jersey’s future amidst national and global uncertainties.

For those unable to listen to the full episode, this summary encapsulates the critical discussions and viewpoints shared by Governor Murphy, highlighting the resilience and proactive measures underway to navigate through political and economic turbulence.

Stay tuned to The MeidasTouch Podcast every Tuesday and Friday morning, with live video sessions every Monday and Thursday night on the MeidasTouch YouTube channel.