Phil Murphy defeats Kim Guadagno to become next Governor of New Jersey

BY DAN WANSER

Democratic nominee Phil Murphy has defeated Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno to become the next Governor of the state of New Jersey.

With the sharp decrease in support over the last few years of current Governor Chris Christie, this outcome was an expected one. Christie’s approval ratings have been regularly in the mid to low teens, and Lt. Governor/Candidate Guadagno had trouble distancing herself from Christie because of her large role in the administration.

Murphy is a former Goldman Sachs executive and has also served as a United States Ambassador to Germany.

“This is one of the first major elections since Donald Trump was elected. Tonight, New Jersey sent an unmistakable message to the entire nation” said Murphy at a speech after the race was called. “We are better than this”.  

This election came with additional consequences due to a potential vacancy that may be coming in the senate.

Senator Bob Menendez has found himself in hot water as he is facing criminal charges of corruption.

If he is found guilty there will be a lot of pressure for him to step down; the governor would then name his replacement. With Murphy becoming the new Governor, that senate spot would be likely to switch from Republican to Democrat.