Gov. Murphy 'Disturbed' By Clark Mayor Scandal, Calls For Resignation

CLARK, NJ — Gov. Phil Murphy has joined other local leaders in calling for Clark Mayor Sal Bonaccorso's resignation due to a released recording of him using "racist and sexist" language.

An investigation published by NJ.com recently revealed that a whistleblower — Police Lt. Antonia Manata — secretly recorded the mayor, as well as two other top-ranking police officials in the town, using offensive language, referring to Black people as "shines," "spooks" and the N-word.

It was also revealed that Clark officials agreed to pay the whistleblower $400K to avoid a public lawsuit.

Read more: Clark Officials Paid $400K To Hide Racial Slurs Said By Mayor: Report

Murphy's spokeswoman Alyana Post told New Jersey 101.5 that he is "deeply disturbed by these allegations, both regarding the hateful language and subsequent misappropriation of municipal resources aimed at a misguided attempt to obscure their truth.

"There is no place in government or law enforcement for these unacceptable words and actions,” Post added.

Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp also told NJ 101.5 that he was offended by Bonaccorso's comments, calling them "astounding" and "reprehensible."

The Union County Commissioners also released a statement on Friday, condemning the mayor and calling for his immediate resignation.

Read more: Clark Mayor's 'Racist Remarks' Condemned By Union County Commissioners

NJ.com said Bonaccorso repeatedly refused to listen to the recording, claiming he could not "recall" using offensive language.

The recorded conversation can be found on NJ.com's article.