Gov. Phil Murphy is responding to a state lawmaker's criticism for his use of the word knucklehead when describing anyone who doesn't observe social distancing rules.

 

The governor took time Monday at his daily briefing to set the record straight.

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"I was criticized by someone, a legislator, for using the word knucklehead,” says Gov. Murphy. “So, I looked it up for myself and the definition is a stupid, bumbling inept person. I was given two alternatives to consider, not by that person by the way -- blockhead or numbskull. I like knucklehead because we started there, it's got three syllables, it's got a little more umph."

 

If you've been out and about -- you've probably seen some of these signs around the state -- "Don't be a knucklehead, keep a safe distance."

Republican Joe Pinnaccio says calling New Jerseyans knuckleheads is unbecoming and unnecessary.

The signs using the word knucklehead can be seen throughout the state when it comes to practicing social distancing and following the orders laid out by the governor in the continuing battle against coronavirus.