Partisans on both sides of the aisle are not going to like the way Governor Chris Christie, who had tepidly endorsed his opponent, embraced and reveled in Cory Booker’s election to the U.S. Senate. Offering bear hugs, the governor said “I’m happy for the mayor and his victory” and that was “really proud” of Booker. What’s clear is that these two gentlemen genuinely like each other and think that highlighting their productive relationship is mutually beneficial to their respective political careers. With his own reelection effort only a couple of weeks away, Gov. Christie was only too happy to show off his willingness to work across the political divide. Getting the endorsement of the popular governor works for Booker, too, as it helps him broaden his appeal.
Yet, Democrats are grumbling that such displays are unhelpful to state Sen. Barbara Buono’s campaign against Christie. And one can only imagine what Republican activists are thinking about Christie’s future campaign for president.
