WASHINGTON, D.C. – InsiderNJ caught up with U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-1) in the lobby of the Marriott near

the bar where New Jersey’s political establishment hunkered in for a long night of debauchery.

Of course, much of the bar buzz focused around President Donald J. Trump and his unconventional efforts to implement a new policy direction for the country.

Norcross considered the new terrain.

“I think it’s a change from what we’re accustomed to and I think everybody’s starting to feel their way around, but there’s no question coming out with the Muslim ban has shaken the very core of the people we represent,” the congressman told InsiderNJ.  “I was at the airport for the protest and it’s surreal. These weren’t normal protesters, these were moms with their babies who might be the first or second generation of immigrants. They’re really scared. And then there’s the thought of 20 million people losing health insurance. That has everybody concerned. So we’re going into this with quite a bit of concern about what’s going to happen to our nation.

“There’s no question he’s shaken up the status quo,” Norcross added. “There are some who might suggest that that’s good. It’s good if you own the companies that are in the top one percent. But if you’re in the bottom 90% and just trying to get by, we want to hold him to his campaign promises of creating those good jobs. That’s where I’m focused. …I certainly want to work with the administration. ”

InsiderNJ also asked the congressman about the developing gubernatorial contest, which features, among others, a clash between Democrats Phil Murphy, a former Goldman Sachs executive; and Assemblyman John Wisniewski (D-19).

Norcross wasn’t ready to issue an endorsement.

“Phil certainly appears to be heading the pack,” he said. “I have a great relationship with John. We have time to shake things out and very shortly we will come to a consensus, as we always do.”