Murphy holds 1st Cabinet meeting, signs 2nd executive order

Democratic New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy's first full day on the job included his first Cabinet meeting and an executive order signing event.
Murphy met with his Cabinet, most of which has not been confirmed yet, in Trenton on Wednesday. Among the attendees was the new attorney general, former Bergen County Prosecutor Gurbir Grewal, who was confirmed Tuesday.
“I am proud to say that our Cabinet looks like the state of New Jersey,” Murphy said in a written statement. “In one of the most diverse states in the nation, those in leadership should reflect the people they are chosen to serve. Our Cabinet celebrates this state’s diversity and intelligence and sends a powerful message to residents that there is room for them in government and decision-making.”
Murphy also signed his second executive order on Wednesday. This one was focused on his code of conduct and requires the new governor to disclose any gifts received that meet the federal disclosure requirement. He said the executive order does not apply to gifts given by friends that his family has known for more than three years.
“This administration will have the back of every New Jersey resident and that begins with having a government they can trust,” he said. “Our principles are strong and, today, we have taken the first step toward a fairer New Jersey.”
Just hours after his inauguration, Murphy signed his first executive order, which was aimed at promoting gender pay equality.
Murphy was sworn in on Tuesday as New Jersey's 56th governor. He succeeds two-term Republican Gov. Chris Christie.
Murphy also attended a roundtable discussion on the minimum wage and paid sick leave. The new governor has promised to sign legislation raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour.
The Associated Press news wire service contributed to this report.