Mercer Times

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed their excitement as the Host Region of New York New Jersey was awarded the rights to host the FIFA World Cup 26™ Final and seven other matches at the New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Governor Murphy stated, “As an advocate for this region, and a lifelong soccer fan, I am thrilled that FIFA chose to place their trust in New York New Jersey to host the historic FIFA World Cup 26 Final,” while Mayor Adams highlighted, “New York New Jersey is ready for North America to be the center of the soccer world.”

The FIFA World Cup 26™ will be a significant event, with Governor Murphy emphasizing, “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our entire region; hosting the Final provides NYNJ an unparalleled platform to brilliantly showcase what we stand for – diversity, equality, access, and inclusion.” First Lady Tammy Murphy added, “Future generations will remember this momentous chapter of our region’s history as we provide an extraordinary experience for millions of fans in New Jersey and New York, and around the globe.”

In another development, Governor Murphy signed Executive Order No. 354 to establish the New Jersey-India Commission, aiming to strengthen the cultural and economic ties between the two regions. Consul General of India Binaya Srikanta Pradhan commended the initiative, stating, "Our partnership with New Jersey is unique in several ways."

Furthermore, First Lady Tammy Murphy and Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Kaitlan Baston released the New Jersey Report Card of Hospital Maternity Care, with First Lady Murphy emphasizing the importance of the report card in evaluating progress and ensuring safe maternal outcomes. Dr. Baston highlighted the need for continued efforts to improve maternal health care in New Jersey.

Lastly, State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio encouraged New Jersey residents to explore the State’s Earned Income Tax Credit, which provides financial relief to eligible residents. She stated, “New Jersey’s Earned Income Tax Credit is among the most generous in the country; the average credit is about $826, on top of the federal credit.”

These developments highlight the diverse and progressive initiatives taking place in New Jersey, ranging from hosting major sporting events to advancing economic and healthcare partnerships both locally and internationally.