Chris Christie’s moment has finally arrived. The New Jersey governor shall ascend from his earthly trappings and join presumptive nominee Donald Trump in gold-plated glory. Ever since Christie stood behind Trump — “hostage face” intact — for a rousing Super Tuesday victory speech, folks wondered what was in it for the former candidate. Chris Matthews and Hillary Clinton mused over a hot mic whether Christie owed a “debt” or was simply thirsty for “a future” that would otherwise never arrive.
Christie stayed loyal to Trump for months, even as Trump would shove him onto a plane with a “go home.” Such treatment had to sting, but Christie distracted himself by dancing to liberal anthems at a Bruce Springsteen concert. All the while, Christie appeared sporadically behind Trump, most notably in New York. During yet another victory speech, Christie smiled broadly as Trump accused Hillary Clinton of using a “woman card” (while the governor’s wife didn’t look pleased). After all these trials, Trump now rewards his friend for his “loyal” behavior with a job title:
“Governor Christie is an extremely knowledgeable and loyal person with the tools and resources to put together an unparalleled Transition Team, one that will be prepared to take over the White House when we win in November. I am grateful to Governor Christie for his contributions to this movement.”
Yes, future President Trump has named Christie as his Transition Team Chairman, and the guy couldn’t be more pleased:
“I am honored by the confidence being placed in me by Mr. Trump and look forward to putting together a first rate team to assemble an administration to help best serve the President-elect and the nation.”
Well, this isn’t a long-term position, but it’s a step out of New Jersey, which Christie appears to desire. After all, last year’s flooding in the state was greeted by an absent governor and a very sarcastic response — “I don’t know what you want me to do. You want me to go down there with a mop?” — when asked to explain himself. In reality, this is a sweet gig for Christie, for John Podesta helped chair the Obama-Biden transition team. He’s since acted as an Obama counselor and is currently heading the Clinton campaign. So, Trump has rewarded Christie handsomely, but if Clinton wins the general election, Christie will be the next Carly Fiorina.
(Via CBS New York)