New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy recently caused a stir by suggesting he was providing housing for an individual with uncertain immigration status at his residence, seemingly challenging the federal government to intervene. During an interview with Blue Wave New Jersey, a progressive organization, Murphy recounted a conversation with his wife, Tammy, where they offered to house someone whose immigration status was unresolved in the space above their garage.

Murphy's statement, "Good luck to the feds coming in to try to get her," implied the individual might be an undocumented immigrant, prompting inquiries from Fox News Digital. However, a source close to the governor later clarified that no one actually moved into the Murphy residence. The source explained that the governor was simply expressing concern for someone within his network who was anxious about the current political climate. The offer of housing, according to the source, was never formally extended to the individual and the person in question was, in fact, a legal resident of the United States.

This incident occurred amidst increased ICE activity in New Jersey, including a raid in Newark in late January, which drew criticism from Murphy and prompted his office to seek further information from the federal government. Following the raid, a spokesperson for Murphy emphasized the importance of public trust in maintaining public safety and stated the governor's desire to understand the specifics of the Newark operation.

Murphy’s comments also coincided with ICE operations elsewhere, such as a worksite raid in Philadelphia where several individuals were apprehended. Former ICE Acting Deputy Director Ken Genalo discussed the impact of sanctuary city policies on public safety, particularly in New York City.

Former Trump border czar Tom Homan has previously stated that knowingly harboring an undocumented immigrant is against the law. ICE has yet to respond to requests for comment on the matter.