why does nj have an acting governor right now

New Jersey currently has an acting governor, Tahesha Way, because Governor Phil Murphy is not available to fulfill his duties. Acting Governor Way stepped in and declared a State of Emergency on October 10, 2025, ahead of an expected powerful nor'easter storm. Murphy was likely out of state or otherwise unavailable at that time, which triggers the state's line of succession where the lieutenant governor assumes gubernatorial duties. Way has thus full executive authority to act as governor during Murphy's absence, such as enacting emergency orders for the upcoming storm. This is a routine process under New Jersey law when the elected governor is unable to perform their role.