TRENTON, N.J. -- The acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey has initiated an inquiry into Governor Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matt Platkin regarding the state's policy concerning cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration agents.
Alina Habba, who was appointed last month as the interim U.S. Attorney, revealed the investigation on Thursday evening during a television appearance.
"I want to make it clear to everyone that I have directed my office to commence an investigation into Governor Murphy and Attorney General Platkin," Habba stated.
Representatives from both Governor Murphy's and Attorney General Platkin's offices have declined to issue any statements on the matter.
The Murphy administration has generally adopted a supportive stance on immigration issues. During his time in office, the previous Attorney General issued guidance that restricted collaboration between local police and immigration authorities. Legislation seeking to codify this directive into state law is currently under consideration but has not progressed.
This policy and the proposed legislation have garnered renewed attention since the commencement of President Trump's second term, particularly following immigration-related arrests in Newark shortly after the inauguration. These arrests prompted immigration advocates to question Governor Murphy's response during a press conference held by Newark's mayor, who criticized the immigration enforcement efforts.
Habba succeeded John Giordano as the interim U.S. Attorney after he was nominated by the president to serve as the U.S. ambassador to Namibia.
Prior to her appointment, Habba was a partner in a New Jersey-based law firm and served as a senior advisor for a political action committee. She also provided legal representation and acted as a spokesperson for Trump in various civil lawsuits.