Garden State Times

Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco and Senator Michael Testa issued a joint statement expressing concern over Governor Murphy's administration's handling of information regarding Orsted's decision to withdraw from offshore wind projects. The legislators criticized the lack of transparency displayed by the administration, noting that they were informed about Orsted's decision a week before the official announcement was made.

Bucco and Testa highlighted their unease with the situation, stating, "It is very disturbing that the Murphy administration knew about Orsted’s decision a week before an official announcement was made. This kind of unacceptable behavior is further evidence of Governor Murphy’s lack of transparency and his administration’s desire to keep the Legislature in the dark."

The legislators also raised suspicions about the timing of the information release, suggesting, "Keeping this information quiet is suspect and calls for speculation as to whether he wanted Orsted to delay their announcement until after the election." They emphasized the need for legislative hearings to address the matter, stating, "This is all the more reason why legislative hearings are long overdue."

Furthermore, Bucco and Testa criticized Governor Murphy's overall leadership style, drawing parallels between his handling of the Orsted situation and his management of other critical issues. They remarked, "Governor Murphy’s behavior should come as no surprise. He has ruled New Jersey like a king. His handling of Orsted is akin to his attempt to hide information about nursing home deaths during the pandemic and his failure to keep veterans safe. This is not the kind of leadership that New Jerseyans deserve. It is time for a change."

In light of these statements, it is evident that Bucco and Testa are calling for increased transparency and accountability from Governor Murphy's administration, emphasizing the importance of ethical governance and public trust in leadership.