Chris Christie Shakes Up 2024 Campaign
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie launched his second presidential campaign with a scathing critique of former President Donald Trump, referring to him as a “lonely, self-consumed mirror hog” and a threat to the nation. At a town hall event in New Hampshire, Christie admitted his previous support for Trump was a mistake and called on Republicans to reject the current GOP front-runner. He emphasized the importance of being wary of a leader who never admits mistakes, always blames others for failures, and never loses.
Christie’s announcement came shortly after he filed with the Federal Election Commission and one day after New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu opted not to run. Christie aims to appeal to more traditional, establishment-friendly Republicans and position himself as a counterbalance to Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Notably, there is a crowded field of candidates, including Trump, DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Asa Hutchinson, Tim Scott, and others, which could result in a nominee with less than majority support.
Christie criticized DeSantis and Trump for their ambiguous positions on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and for focusing on what he referred to as trivial issues. He likened Trump to the fictional character Voldemort from the Harry Potter series, accusing him of never admitting fault or mistakes.
Christie believes he is well-positioned to challenge Trump in the primary while appealing to independent voters in a potential general election against President Joe Biden. He has the support of a new super PAC called “Tell It Like It Is,” formed by his allies. Christie also expressed his view that Biden is dividing voters and highlighted their long-standing relationship, criticizing the president as being past his prime.
Christie’s involvement in presidential politics dates back to 2011, and he endorsed Trump after ending his own short-lived 2016 campaign. However, following Trump’s defeat in 2020 and his subsequent attempts to overturn the election, Christie distanced himself from the former president and emerged as one of his key Republican critics.
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