25 Facts About Chris Christie

Chris Christie's Early Life

Chris Christie, a prominent figure in American politics, has a background that shaped his career. Here are some intriguing facts about his early years.

1. Born on September 6, 1962, in Newark, New Jersey, Chris Christie grew up in Livingston, a suburban town in the same state.
2. His father, Wilbur James Christie, was a certified public accountant, and his mother, Sondra A. Christie, was a telephone receptionist.
3. Christie attended Livingston High School, where he was class president and played catcher on the baseball team.
4. He graduated from the University of Delaware in 1984 with a Bachelor of Arts in political science.
5. Christie earned his Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1987.

Political Beginnings

Christie's journey into politics began at a young age, setting the stage for his future roles.

6. In 1994, Christie was elected as a county freeholder in Morris County, New Jersey, serving until 1998.
7. He ran unsuccessfully for the New Jersey State Assembly in 1995.
8. President George W. Bush appointed Christie as the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey in 2002.
9. As U.S. Attorney, Christie led several high-profile corruption cases, earning a reputation for being tough on crime.
10. He served as U.S. Attorney until 2008, when he resigned to run for governor of New Jersey.

Governorship of New Jersey

Christie's tenure as governor brought both praise and controversy. Here are some key moments from his time in office.

11. Christie was elected the 55th governor of New Jersey in 2009, defeating incumbent Jon Corzine.
12. He was re-elected in 2013 with over 60% of the vote, a significant margin in a predominantly Democratic state.
13. Christie gained national attention for his handling of Hurricane Sandy in 2012, working closely with President Obama to secure federal aid.
14. His administration faced criticism for the "Bridgegate" scandal in 2013, where lane closures on the George Washington Bridge were allegedly used for political retribution.
15. Despite controversies, Christie maintained a strong approval rating for much of his tenure, known for his direct and often confrontational style.

Presidential Aspirations

Christie aimed for the highest office in the land, but his journey was met with challenges.

16. In 2015, Christie announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for President of the United States.
17. His campaign focused on his record as governor and his tough stance on national security.
18. Christie struggled to gain traction in a crowded field, often polling in the lower tier of candidates.
19. He suspended his campaign in February 2016 after a poor showing in the New Hampshire primary.
20. Christie endorsed Donald Trump shortly after ending his campaign, becoming one of the first major Republicans to do so.

Post-Governorship Activities

After leaving office, Christie continued to influence politics and public life in various ways.

21. Christie served as the chairman of Trump's transition team after the 2016 election.
22. He has been a political commentator on ABC News, providing analysis and opinions on current events.
23. Christie published a memoir in 2019 titled "Let Me Finish," detailing his political career and experiences.
24. He has remained active in Republican politics, often speaking at events and supporting candidates.
25. Christie tested positive for COVID-19 in October 2020 after attending a White House event, later advocating for mask-wearing and public health measures.

Chris Christie's life and career have been marked by significant achievements, controversies, and a steadfast presence in American politics.

Final Thoughts on Chris Christie

Chris Christie’s life is a mix of politics, controversy, and personal triumphs. From his early days as a lawyer to his tenure as New Jersey's governor, he’s made a significant impact. Known for his blunt style, Christie has never shied away from speaking his mind. His handling of Hurricane Sandy brought him national attention, but his bridge scandal also cast a shadow. Despite setbacks, he remains a prominent figure in American politics. Whether you agree with his policies or not, Christie’s career offers valuable lessons in resilience and the complexities of public service. His journey is a testament to the highs and lows that come with a life dedicated to politics. Keep an eye on him; his story is far from over.