Gov. Murphy Signs Executive Order to Protect New Jersey’s Elections Infrastructure

On Nov 2, 2018

Governor Murphy signed an executive order directing the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC), an organization within the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, to coordinate all cybersecurity efforts necessary to protect our elections infrastructure against cyberattacks.

“While New Jerseyans exercise their right to vote in this critical election, we are taking necessary steps to prevent any cyber threats to our democracy,” said Governor Murphy. “Our nation has seen what happens when foreign adversaries try to meddle in our elections, and we must do everything we can to prepare for these threats and protect the integrity of New Jersey’s electoral systems.”

“The election process is a pivotal component of our democracy,” said Jared Maples, Director of the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness. “As such, we must be proactive in our efforts to combat cybersecurity threats to our voting mechanisms. The NJOHSP through the NJCCIC remains committed to preserving the integrity of our elections infrastructure in coordination with our local, state, and federal partners.”

“The signing of this Executive Order shows the strong commitment Governor Murphy has to ensuring safe and secure elections,” said Secretary of State Tahesha Way. “This Executive Order further strengthens the existing partnership between the Department of State, the Division of Elections, the NJCCIC, and our local election officials.”

On Election Day, the NJCCIC will activate its security operations at the NJ Regional Operations and Intelligence Center to monitor and coordinate the response to any identified cybersecurity threats against elections infrastructure. The NJCCIC will also provide any assistance to state, county and local organizations as needed.

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