Murphy says political protest gatherings off for now

Gov. Phil Murphy says that in-person political protests will need to be suspended as New Jersey battles the deadly coronavirus pandemic.

“Democracy has to continue but we have to do it in a smarter way,” Murphy said. “It’s going to have to be things like virtual participation.  I don’t see any way around that.”

Murphy also said that public hearings, including a move to raise tolls on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway, will need to be conducted electronically and with extended period for public comment.

“I can’t condone them unless they’re done virtually,” he stated . “We cannot be gathering right now.”