Press Releases

The ACLU of New Jersey has media staff to handle inquiries from journalists on issues affecting civil liberties and constitutional freedoms. To schedule an interview with one of our experts, members of the press can send an email to press@aclu-nj.org. Please include your name, your outlet, your contact information, details about your story, and deadline.

Jan 20, 2026

ACLU-NJ Statement on the Inauguration of Governor Mikie Sherrill

The organization has released policy recommendations urging the Sherrill administration to protect and expand civil rights.
Issue Areas: Immigrants' Rights, Democracy & Civic Engagement, Criminal Legal System, Racial & Economic Justice, Gender, Sexuality & Reproductive Freedom, Speech, Privacy & Technology
Jan 20, 2026

ACLU-NJ Celebrates Final Round of Releases Under The Clemency Project

The ACLU of New Jersey celebrates Governor Murphy’s announcement today of 51 commutations and 97 pardons, including 16 of the ACLU-NJ's Clemency Project clients.
Issue Areas: Decarceration, Criminal Legal System, Racial & Economic Justice
Jan 20, 2026

ACLU-NJ Statement on Gov. Murphy’s Pocket Vetoes of Meaningful Protections for New Jersey’s Immigrant Communities

In failing to sign these bills, Governor Murphy has left New Jersey without critical protections at a moment when ICE is brutalizing our communities.
Issue Areas: Immigrants' Rights, Immigration Enforcement & Detention
Jan 16, 2026

126 Advocacy Groups Send Letter Urging Gov. Murphy to Sign Immigrant Protection Bill Package

Collectively, these pieces of legislation will implement critical protections for immigrant New Jerseyans.
Jan 15, 2026

ACLU-NJ Responds to Complaint Against Clark Police Department 

The lawsuit filed by the Attorney General and the Division on Civil Rights against the Clark Police Department sends a clear message: law enforcement must be held accountable for discriminatory and racist practices.
Issue Areas: Police & Law Enforcement, Criminal Legal System, Discrimination, Racial & Economic Justice
Jan 15, 2026

Appeals Court in Mahmoud Khalil’s Case Decides Federal Court Lacks Jurisdiction Until Immigration Court Proceedings Complete

Despite this ruling, the legal fight continues and the government has no legal authority to re-detain him until the appeals process is fully concluded
Issue Areas: Free Speech & Expression, Immigrants' Rights
Jan 13, 2026

Advocates Celebrate “Use of Force Directive” Codified Into Law

Governor Murphy recently signed S2348/A4175, codifying the Attorney General’s Use of Force Directive into state law. This action ensures that long‑overdue protections against police violence will endure beyond any administration and stands as one of the strongest statutory safeguards in the country.
Issue Areas: Police & Law Enforcement, Criminal Legal System
Jan 13, 2026

ACLU-NJ Responds to Gov. Murphy’s Final State of the State Address

As Governor Murphy said during his final State of the State address, the last eight years have been marked by landmark progress made toward building a stronger and fairer New Jersey brimming with opportunity for all. And they have also been marked by unprecedented attacks on our rights and liberties.