Phil Murphy for Governor Operative Elizabeth “Liz” Gilbert is in a sturdy position to serve as the next executive director for the New Jersey Democratic Committee, sources tell InsiderNJ.

Rumor has it ED Chris James (also an East Orange councilman and founder of his own political consulting company) may be in consideration for a job in the administration – or for a leap up to the Essex County Freeholder Board in the event that Essex County Democratic Committee Chairman Leroy Jones taps Freeholder Britnee Timberlake to replace LG-elect Sheila Oliver in the 34th District Assembly seat.

Gilbert of New York worked on the Murphy Campaign and is part of Phil and Tammy Murphy’s inner circle. She’s also running the inaugural.

There was some behind the scenes pushing and shoving over Gilbert – not yet a done deal.

One source lauded her as a star.

Another, speaking on condition of anonymity, lambasted Murphy for tapping someone who lacks NJ experience and is perceived early to have more of a New York pedigree. 

“Extreme concern” was the way the source characterized the pick.

A third source seethed.

Out of it, he said.

Held two jobs, one in Texas for six months for someone who lost by 21 points and for a Florida candidate who lost by 15.

“Phil knows that her dad was an her ambassador, too,” the source added. “Liz is from Florida. Just moved to NYC after being hired by Phil. Didn’t even move to NJ after being hired. Dad an Obama donor. Doesn’t know a person in New Jersey but yet wants to run the party.”