Tom Homan, who served as President Trump’s border enforcement chief, has indicated the possibility of prosecuting Governor Phil Murphy (D-NJ) following the latter’s remarks about potentially providing shelter to an individual with an unresolved immigration status.
During a public discussion, Governor Murphy expressed his willingness to accommodate someone within his network whose immigration status remains uncertain, stating, “And good luck to the feds coming in to try to get her.” He elaborated, “I don’t want to get into too much detail, but there’s someone in our broader universe whose immigration status is not yet at the point that they are trying to get it to and we said, ‘You know what, let’s have her live at our house above our garage,’” during an event in Montclair, New Jersey.
Subsequently, Murphy’s office sought to clarify his statements, with a representative informing The New York Post on Monday that his comments had been “misinterpreted.”
In reaction, Homan asserted on Fox News’ “Hannity” that if Governor Murphy is indeed knowingly harboring and concealing an undocumented immigrant, it would constitute a violation of Title 8, United States Code 1324, which forbids such actions. He expressed his intention to pursue prosecution should these allegations be verified.
“I think the governor is quite unwise in making such statements because I have obtained the information. We will not overlook this,” Homan remarked to Sean Hannity. “We will investigate. If he is knowingly harboring and concealing an illegal alien, that is a breach of Title 8, United States Code 1324. I will pursue prosecution, or the secretary will pursue it.”
“Perhaps he is merely bluffing. If he is not, we will address the situation,” Homan added.
However, Murphy’s office confirmed to DailyMail on Tuesday that they are unaware of any undocumented migrant being concealed at the governor’s residence. A spokesperson for the office stated, “We have not received any official confirmation regarding the truth of this matter. We cannot comment on whether the Governor was joking or not.”
“We have received numerous inquiries concerning this issue.”
There is currently no updated information available to determine whether his remarks were made in jest or were serious, she stated. “I apologize for not having more details to provide, but I anticipate that by tomorrow we will have additional information, as this has been a significant topic of discussion today.”
During a visit by DailyMail to the large estate on Tuesday, neighbors expressed their surprise at Murphy’s comments.
“I heard he claimed to have someone living at his house, but I cannot understand why he would say that. I have never seen anyone,” remarked a woman who chose to remain anonymous when speaking to DailyMail.
When asked if she was surprised by the statements, she replied, “Considering his political views, I am not shocked.” She added, “They have never informed us about anyone residing there. They are very friendly, kind, and good neighbors.”
The woman also noted the ongoing presence of state police security at the property.
