Phil Murphy narrowly secures 2nd term as New Jersey governor

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - Democrat Phil Murphy narrowly secured a second term as governor of the US state of New Jersey on Wednesday after defeating Republican Jack Ciattarelli.

The Associated Press called the race, saying Murphy sidelined his rival by a 50.02-49.23 margin with 90% of precincts reporting.

With the victory, Murphy has become the first Democrat in 44 years to win a second term as governor in New Jersey.

New Jersey Senator Cory Booker congratulated Murphy on his winning re-election.

"Congratulations to my friend and our great Governor @PhilMurphyNJ on winning re-election. You have moved our state forward in the midst of an unprecedented crisis. For New Jersey, and your leadership, our best days are ahead," said Booker on Twitter.

The Democrats' victory in the Garden State came a day after Republican Glenn Youngkin's win in the Virginia gubernatorial race. Youngkin defeated Democrat Terry McAuliffe to take the governor's mansion.

Murphy took the oath of office as New Jersey’s 56th governor on Jan.16, 2018.

He is married with four children.