NJ National Guard Stayed In Hotels, Not Parking Garages

NEW JERSEY - Senator Joe Pennacchio called on Governor Phil Murphy to bring the New Jersey National Guard home from Washington, D.C. after reports that military personnel deployed in the capital to provide security for the inauguration of President Joe Biden had been relegated to sleeping on the floors of parking garages. The only problem was that wasn't true for the New Jerseyans.

"Some folks irresponsibly in this state put out statements without calling me up or asking one of us what the facts were," Murphy said. "So I would say next time give us a call and make sure you get your facts straight."

Pennacchio said that after two weeks providing security duty, thousands of guard members were ordered out of the Capitol complex and relocated to parking garages and outdoor encampments.

“While the politicos and power brokers celebrated and had a grand time inside, the guard was banished to sleeping on cold, damp, oil-stained concrete floors,” said Pennacchio. “It was inexcusable and indefensible treatment.

Murphy said at no time was the New Jersey contingent subjected to that treatment.

"I was as angry as anyone when I saw pictures of guardswomen and guardsmen from across the country relegated to sleeping on the floor of a parking garage. This is no way for our heroes to be treated," he said. "Thankfully, none of our guard, none of the New Jersey guard, were left to deal with such disrespect. We provided hotel accommodations for our guard throughout their duties in Washington and will continue to do so. We will make sure they always have a safe and warm place to recharge."

Pennacchio said it was time to bring the New Jersey troops home immediately, Murphy said people need to remember why the guard was there in the first place.

"They're there because there was an insurrection in our Capitol," he said. "And they need to be there to protect our institutions of Democracy and literally to protect individuals."

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