Christopher James Christie is an American politician and former federal prosecutor who served as the 55th governor of New Jersey from 2010 to 2018. He is a member of the Republican Party and held the position of United States Attorney for New Jersey from 2002 to 2008. Prior to that, he was a Morris County commissioner from 1995 to 1997. Christie was a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination in both 2016 and 2024.
1947: Tradition of Political Balance on Supreme Court
Since the adoption of the 1947 state constitution, the New Jersey Supreme Court had adhered to an unwritten tradition of maintaining a political balance among its seven members. This tradition dictated that the court should consist of four members from either the Democratic or Republican Party, with the remaining three justices belonging to the other major party.
September 6, 1962: Birth of Chris Christie
Chris Christie was born on September 6, 1962, in Newark, New Jersey.
1967: Chris Christie's family moves to Livingston, New Jersey
Chris Christie's family moved to Livingston, New Jersey, in 1967 following the Newark riots.
1980: Chris Christie Graduates from Livingston High School
Chris Christie graduated from Livingston High School in 1980.
1981: Chris Christie volunteers for Thomas Kean's gubernatorial campaign
Chris Christie began his political career by volunteering for Thomas Kean's gubernatorial campaign in 1981.
1984: Chris Christie Graduates from the University of Delaware
Chris Christie graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 1984.
1984: Chris Christie Graduates from the University of Delaware
Chris Christie graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 1984.
1986: Christie Marries Mary Pat Foster
Chris Christie married Mary Pat Foster, whom he met while attending the University of Delaware, in 1986.
December 1987: Chris Christie Admitted to New Jersey State Bar Association
Chris Christie graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law with a J.D. and was admitted to the New Jersey State Bar Association and the Bar of the United States District Court in December 1987.
1987: Chris Christie joins Dughi, Hewit & Palatucci law firm
Chris Christie joined the law firm of Dughi, Hewit & Palatucci of Cranford, New Jersey, in 1987.
1992: Chris Christie volunteers for George H.W. Bush's re-election campaign
Chris Christie volunteered for the re-election campaign of President George H. W. Bush in New Jersey in 1992.
1993: Chris Christie launches primary challenge against John H. Dorsey
Chris Christie launched a primary challenge against New Jersey Senate Majority Leader John H. Dorsey in 1993.
1993: Chris Christie becomes partner at Dughi, Hewit & Palatucci law firm
Chris Christie was named partner at the law firm Dughi, Hewit & Palatucci in 1993.
1993: Birth of Andrew Christie
Chris Christie's son, Andrew, was born in 1993.
1994: Chris Christie elected as Morris County Freeholder
Chris Christie was elected as a Republican to the Board of Chosen Freeholders for Morris County, New Jersey in 1994.
1994: Chris Christie sued for defamation
Following his election as a Morris County Freeholder, the defeated incumbents filed a defamation lawsuit against Chris Christie based on statements made during the primary campaign in 1994. The suit was later settled out of court.
1995: Chris Christie runs for New Jersey General Assembly
Chris Christie announced a bid for a seat in the New Jersey General Assembly in 1995.
1996: Chris Christie loses re-election bid for Morris County Freeholder
Chris Christie lost his re-election bid for the Morris County Freeholder position in the Republican primary in 1996.
1996: Criticism of Section 287(g)
Chris Christie voiced his criticism of Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This section, enacted in 1996, allowed for agreements between the federal government and state and local law enforcement agencies, granting designated officers the authority to enforce federal immigration laws.
1996: Birth of Sarah Christie
Chris Christie's daughter, Sarah, was born in 1996.
1997: Chris Christie loses bid for re-nomination to freeholder board
Chris Christie's bid for re-nomination to the freeholder board was unlikely, as unhappy Republicans recruited John J. Murphy to run against him in 1997. Murphy defeated Christie in the primary.
1998: Chris Christie's career in Morris County politics ends
By 1998, Chris Christie's career in Morris County politics was over.
1999: Chris Christie begins work as a lobbyist with Dughi, Hewit & Palatucci
When Chris Christie's part-time position as a chosen freeholder lapsed, he returned full attention to his law firm, Dughi, Hewit & Palatucci. Alongside fellow partner Bill Palatucci, the firm opened an office in Trenton, devoted mainly to lobbying.
1999: Chris Christie begins work as a registered statehouse lobbyist
Chris Christie worked as a registered statehouse lobbyist for Dughi and Hewit from 1999 to 2001.
2000: Chris Christie works for George W. Bush's presidential campaign
Chris Christie worked for George W. Bush's presidential campaign as a campaign lawyer for the state of New Jersey.
2000: Birth of Patrick Christie
Chris Christie's son, Patrick, was born in 2000.
2000: Chris Christie works for George W. Bush's presidential campaign
During the 2000 United States presidential election, Chris Christie was George W. Bush's campaign lawyer for the state of New Jersey.
December 7, 2001: Appointment as U.S. Attorney
On December 7, 2001, Chris Christie was appointed the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey by President George W. Bush.
December 20, 2001: Senate Confirmation
On December 20, 2001, Chris Christie was unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate for the position of U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey.
2001: Chris Christie ends work as a registered statehouse lobbyist
Chris Christie worked as a registered statehouse lobbyist for Dughi and Hewit from 1999 to 2001.
2001: Mary Pat Christie Leaves Cantor Fitzgerald
Mary Pat Christie left her position at the Wall Street firm Cantor Fitzgerald in 2001 after the September 11 attacks.
2001: Chris Christie ends work as a lobbyist with Dughi, Hewit & Palatucci
When Chris Christie's part-time position as a chosen freeholder lapsed, he returned full attention to his law firm, Dughi, Hewit & Palatucci. Alongside fellow partner Bill Palatucci, the firm opened an office in Trenton, devoted mainly to lobbying.
January 2002: Chris Christie becomes U.S. Attorney for New Jersey
In January 2002, Chris Christie was appointed as the U.S. Attorney for New Jersey.
January 17, 2002: Sworn into Office as U.S. Attorney
Chris Christie was sworn into office as U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey on January 17, 2002.
July 2002: Christie Involved in Traffic Accident
In July 2002, Chris Christie was involved in a traffic accident that injured a motorcyclist in Elizabeth, New Jersey, but he did not receive a traffic ticket.
2002: Public Corruption Convictions Begin
Starting in 2002, Chris Christie's office began securing convictions or guilty pleas from public officials on corruption charges.
2003: Birth of Bridget Christie
Chris Christie's daughter, Bridget, was born in 2003.
2003: Conviction of James W. Treffinger
In 2003, Chris Christie's office secured the conviction of Republican Essex County Executive James W. Treffinger on corruption charges.
April 2005: Conviction of Hemant Lakhani
British trader Hemant Lakhani was convicted in April 2005 for attempting to sell missiles. He was found guilty of attempting to provide material support to terrorists, unlawful brokering of foreign defense articles, and attempting to import merchandise into the U.S. by means of false statements, plus two counts of money laundering.
2005: Plea Agreement with Charles Kushner
In 2005, Chris Christie negotiated a plea agreement with Charles Kushner, resulting in Kushner pleading guilty to illegal campaign contributions, tax evasion, and witness tampering.
2006: Subpoena Issued in Menendez Investigation
Chris Christie issued a subpoena related to Congressman Robert Menendez 65 days before the 2006 Senate election. Menendez went on to win the election against Republican Thomas Kean Jr.
2006: Conviction of John A. Lynch Jr.
Former Democratic New Jersey Senate President John A. Lynch Jr. was convicted in 2006 on charges of mail fraud and tax evasion by Chris Christie's office.
2007: Prosecution of Fort Dix Attack Plotters
In 2007, Chris Christie prosecuted the individuals who planned the averted Fort Dix attack plot.
December 1, 2008: End of Tenure as U.S. Attorney
Chris Christie's tenure as U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey ended on December 1, 2008.
December 2008: Chris Christie ends tenure as U.S. Attorney for New Jersey
In December 2008, Chris Christie ended his tenure as the U.S. Attorney for New Jersey.
2008: The Great Recession
The Great Recession began in 2008 and had a global impact.
2008: Convictions of Sharpe James and Wayne R. Bryant
In 2008, Chris Christie's office obtained convictions of State Senator and former Newark Democratic mayor Sharpe James on fraud charges and Democratic State Senator Wayne R. Bryant on charges of bribery, mail fraud, and wire fraud.
January 8, 2009: Christie Announces Candidacy for Governor
Chris Christie officially filed as a candidate for the office of governor of New Jersey on January 8, 2009.
September 2009: Christie's Traffic Accident Disclosed During Campaign
The traffic accident Chris Christie was involved in in July 2002 came to light in September 2009 during his campaign for governor.
2009: Chris Christie Wins New Jersey Gubernatorial Election
Chris Christie won the 2009 Republican primary for Governor of New Jersey and defeated Democratic incumbent Jon Corzine in the general election.
2009: Support for Gun Law Enforcement
During his 2009 candidacy announcement, Christie advocated for strong enforcement of existing gun laws in New Jersey.
2009: Opposition to Same-Sex Marriage
In 2009, Chris Christie publicly stated his opposition to same-sex marriage, indicating he would veto any bill legalizing it and supporting New Jersey's civil union law instead.
2009: ExxonMobil Settlement
Prior to Christie's term, in 2009, the administration of Democrat Jon Corzine had attempted to settle the environmental contamination lawsuit with ExxonMobil for $550 million. This offer was made before a 2009 court ruling that strengthened the state's legal position in the case.
2009: Evolving Stance on Abortion
While initially identifying as "pro-choice", Christie in 2009 stated his anti-abortion stance, but wouldn't enforce it as governor. He supported exceptions for rape, incest, and threats to the mother's life.
January 19, 2010: Inauguration as Governor of New Jersey
Chris Christie was inaugurated as the Governor of New Jersey on January 19, 2010, choosing to reside in his private residence instead of the governor's mansion.
February 2010: Declaration of Fiscal Emergency in New Jersey
In February 2010, due to a projected budget deficit, Chris Christie declared a "state of fiscal emergency" in New Jersey.
March 2010: Signing of Pension Reform Bills
Chris Christie signed three bills related to pension reform in New Jersey in March 2010. These bills received bipartisan support but were met with legal challenges from police and firefighters' unions.
May 2010: Break with Supreme Court Tradition
In May 2010, Christie diverged from a long-standing tradition concerning the New Jersey Supreme Court. He chose not to renominate Justice John E. Wallace Jr., a move that upset the customary political balance on the court.
August 2010: Offshore Wind Economic Development Act
In August 2010, aiming to bolster both manufacturing and alternative energy production, Christie signed the Offshore Wind Economic Development Act. This act empowered the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to offer up to $100 million in tax credits, incentivizing investment in wind energy facilities.
August 25, 2010: Loss of Federal Education Grant
New Jersey, under Chris Christie's governorship, missed out on a $400 million federal education grant due to a clerical error on August 25, 2010.
December 2010: Christie Criticized for Disney World Vacation During Blizzard
Governor Chris Christie faced criticism in December 2010 when he took a family vacation to Disney World while a major blizzard impacted New Jersey. The timing of the trip, with Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno also on vacation in Mexico, drew scrutiny and raised questions about the administration's preparedness for the storm.
December 2010: Commutation of Brian Aitken's Sentence
Chris Christie commuted the seven-year sentence of Brian Aitken, convicted for gun transportation, leading to Aitken's release in December 2010.
2010: Chris Christie Receives Honorary Doctorate Degrees
Chris Christie was awarded honorary doctorate degrees by Rutgers University and Monmouth University in 2010.
2010: Out-of-State Travel Expenses
In 2010, Governor Christie's out-of-state travel expenses amounted to $64,975, representing a relatively lower figure compared to subsequent years.
2010: Chris Christie Cancels Access to the Region's Core Project
In 2010, Governor Chris Christie made the controversial decision to cancel the Access to the Region's Core (ARC) project, a major infrastructure undertaking that would have built new tunnels under the Hudson River and a new terminal station in New York City for NJ Transit commuter trains. Christie cited concerns about rising costs and potential overruns as justification for the cancellation.
January 2011: Expansion of Charter Schools
In January 2011, the Christie administration significantly expanded the charter school landscape in New Jersey, approving 23 new institutions. This included a groundbreaking initiative: New Jersey's first independent school specifically designed for children with autism. These approvals brought the total number of charter schools in the state to 96.
May 26, 2011: Withdrawal from Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative
On May 26, 2011, Christie made the decision to withdraw New Jersey from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a collaborative effort among Northeastern states to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
June 2011: Reform of Public Employee Pensions and Benefits
In June 2011, Chris Christie reached an agreement with Democratic leaders to reform public employee pensions and benefits in New Jersey, a deal projected to save the state billions over several decades.
June 2011: Vetoing Budget and Signing Payroll Tax Cut
In June 2011, Chris Christie used his line-item veto power to eliminate almost $1 billion from the proposed New Jersey budget. This move came just before the start of the state's fiscal year. Later in June, he signed into law a payroll tax cut for most employees.
July 1, 2011: Implementation of Budget Cuts and Payroll Tax Cut
On July 1, 2011, Chris Christie signed a new budget for New Jersey which included significant cuts, including the elimination of nearly $1 billion from the proposed budget. This came after he had declared a "state of fiscal emergency" in February 2010. The same year, he also signed into law a payroll tax cut.
September 2011: Speculation and Reconsideration of 2012 Presidential Run
In September 2011, amidst speculation about a potential presidential bid, Chris Christie publicly stated that he would not be running for president in 2012. Despite this initial decision, reports emerged suggesting he was reconsidering his stance under pressure from prominent figures within the Republican party.
October 5, 2011: Robert Menendez Cleared in Investigation
The investigation of Congressman Robert Menendez, which began during Chris Christie's time as U.S. Attorney, continued for years after Christie left office. Menendez was cleared of all charges on October 5, 2011.
October 2011: Decision to Not Run for President in 2012
After much speculation and internal debate, Chris Christie announced in October 2011 his decision to not seek the presidency in the 2012 election. He subsequently endorsed Mitt Romney for the Republican nomination.
2011: Amtrak Unveils Gateway Project
In 2011, following the cancellation of the ARC project, Amtrak introduced the Gateway Project. The Gateway Project, which aims to address the urgent need for increased rail capacity under the Hudson River, commenced construction in 2023.
2011: Christie's Weight Becomes a Public Topic
In 2011, columnist Eugene Robinson labeled Chris Christie as "extremely obese" based on National Institutes of Health guidelines, sparking public discussion about his weight.
2011: Out-of-State Travel Expenses
Governor Christie's out-of-state travel expenses in 2011 totaled $129,842, marking a significant increase compared to previous years.
February 17, 2012: Same-Sex Marriage Bill Vetoed
On February 17, 2012, Chris Christie vetoed a bill that would have legalized same-sex marriage in New Jersey, proposing the issue be decided by voters in a referendum.
April 2012: Christie Makes First Official Overseas Trip to Israel and Jordan
In April 2012, Governor Chris Christie undertook his first official overseas trip since assuming office, embarking on a journey to Israel and Jordan. During his visit to Israel, Christie engaged in meetings with key figures such as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Shimon Peres, further strengthening diplomatic ties between New Jersey and Israel.
August 6, 2012: Teacher Tenure Reform
On August 6, 2012, Chris Christie enacted legislation that brought substantial changes to the teacher tenure system in New Jersey public schools. The new law extended the probationary period for teachers to attain tenure from three to four years. Additionally, it mandated that teachers receive positive performance ratings for two consecutive years to be eligible for tenure. The reform also introduced a mechanism for dismissing tenured teachers who received poor ratings for two consecutive years, streamlining the appeals process for such dismissals to a maximum of 105 days.
August 2012: Keynote Address at the Republican National Convention
In August 2012, Chris Christie delivered the keynote address at the Republican National Convention, further raising his national profile and solidifying his position as a prominent figure within the Republican Party.
September 21, 2012: Gender-Equal Pay Notice Law
On September 21, 2012, Christie signed into law Assembly Bill No. 2647 (A-2647). This law mandated that employers in New Jersey prominently display and distribute notices informing their employees about their rights regarding equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender.
October 30, 2012: Praise for President Obama's Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts
On October 30, 2012, during a press conference addressing the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Chris Christie, a Republican, surprised many by publicly praising the disaster relief efforts of then-President Barack Obama, a Democrat. His comments, while praised by some, also drew criticism from within his own party.
November 2012: Filing for Re-election
Chris Christie officially filed paperwork in November 2012 to seek a second term as the Governor of New Jersey.
December 28, 2012: Senate Approves Hurricane Sandy Relief Package
On December 28, 2012, in the aftermath of the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy, the U.S. Senate passed a $60.4 billion disaster relief package to aid New Jersey and other affected states in their recovery efforts. The package aimed to provide essential funding for rebuilding infrastructure, providing assistance to businesses and individuals, and mitigating future risks.
2012: Discussion About Weight and Presidential Viability
During the lead-up to the 2012 presidential election, there was public and media discussion regarding Chris Christie's weight and its potential implications for his viability as a presidential candidate. While some raised concerns, others, including the Obesity Society, defended his capabilities and criticized the focus on his physical appearance.
2012: Out-of-State Travel Expenses
In 2012, Governor Christie's out-of-state travel expenses amounted to $248,277, raising questions about the necessity and cost-effectiveness of his travel.
2012: Receipt of Cato Institute Fiscal Report Card Grade
The Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank, gave Chris Christie's fiscal policies a B grade in their 2012 biennial fiscal policy report on America's governors. This was during a period when New Jersey's credit rating was downgraded multiple times.
2012: Support for Mitt Romney's Presidential Campaign
Throughout the 2012 presidential campaign, Chris Christie remained a vocal supporter of Mitt Romney, endorsing his candidacy after opting not to pursue his own presidential aspirations.
January 2013: Minimum Wage Veto
In January 2013, Christie vetoed a bill passed by the New Jersey Legislature that would have increased the state's minimum wage from $7.25 to $8.50 per hour. This veto reflected his stance on government regulation of wages and his concern about potential negative impacts on businesses.
February 2013: Christie Undergoes Lap-Band Surgery
Chris Christie underwent lap-band stomach surgery in February 2013 to address his weight and related health concerns.
February 2013: Legalization of Online Gambling in New Jersey
Chris Christie signed a bill into law in February 2013 that legalized online gambling in New Jersey, aiming to increase state revenue following the 2008 recession.
March 6, 2013: Proposed Overhaul of Teacher Evaluations
On March 6, 2013, the Christie administration unveiled a proposal for a comprehensive overhaul of the teacher evaluation process in New Jersey's public schools. The proposed regulations aimed to tie a portion of teacher evaluations directly to demonstrable student improvement on standardized state tests or to the achievement of student growth goals established by school principals. This initiative reflected the administration's focus on enhancing accountability and performance within the education system.
June 2013: Signing of $33 Billion State Budget
Chris Christie and Democratic leaders negotiated and passed a $33 billion budget for New Jersey in June 2013, marking the first time Christie signed a budget without using his veto power.
June 2013: Veto of Gestation Crate Ban
In June 2013, Christie vetoed bill S1921, which aimed to ban the use of gestation crates for pregnant pigs in New Jersey. This bill, strongly supported by animal welfare advocates, had garnered significant bipartisan backing in both the General Assembly (60–5 vote) and the Senate (29–4 vote).
August 19, 2013: Ban on Gay Conversion Therapy for Children
Chris Christie signed a bill on August 19, 2013, making New Jersey the second state to outlaw gay conversion therapy for children.
September 13, 2013: George Washington Bridge Lane Closures Cause Traffic Chaos
From September 9 to September 13, 2013, two out of three traffic lanes on the Fort Lee side of the George Washington Bridge, a major artery into New York City, were closed during the morning rush hour. This closure, orchestrated by a senior Christie aide and an administration appointee, resulted in severe traffic congestion and sparked a major political scandal.
September 18, 2013: Overhaul of Business Tax Incentive Programs
Chris Christie signed legislation on September 18, 2013, that overhauled New Jersey's business tax incentive programs, simplifying the system and aiming to attract more businesses, particularly to South Jersey.
October 18, 2013: Court Decision and Appeal Withdrawal on Same-Sex Marriage
On October 18, 2013, the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled against the Christie administration's appeal to delay a lower court decision legalizing same-sex marriage. Christie subsequently withdrew the state's appeal.
November 5, 2013: Re-election as Governor of New Jersey
On November 5, 2013, Chris Christie was re-elected as the Governor of New Jersey, defeating Democratic nominee Barbara Buono by a significant margin.
November 2013: Elected Chairman of the Republican Governors Association
In November 2013, Chris Christie was elected chairman of the Republican Governors Association (RGA), succeeding Bobby Jindal.
December 2013: In-State Tuition for Unauthorized Immigrants
In December 2013, Christie signed legislation opening up access to higher education for a specific group of unauthorized immigrants in New Jersey. This law enabled unauthorized immigrants who had attended and graduated from a New Jersey high school after completing at least three years of their education there to qualify for in-state tuition rates at the state's public colleges and universities, including community colleges.
2013: Clash with Conservatives and Exclusion from CPAC
Throughout 2013, Chris Christie's actions and statements increasingly put him at odds with conservative factions within the Republican Party. His criticism of House Speaker John Boehner and the National Rifle Association led to his exclusion from the 2013 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), a significant platform for potential Republican presidential candidates.
2013: Theories Emerge Regarding Motives for Bridge Lane Closures
In 2013, following the controversial closure of lanes on the George Washington Bridge, several theories emerged attempting to explain the motivations behind the act. One prominent theory suggested that the closures were a form of political retaliation against the Democratic mayor of Fort Lee, Mark Sokolich, for not endorsing Christie in the gubernatorial election.
2013: Chris Christie Wins Re-election as New Jersey Governor
Chris Christie was re-elected as the Governor of New Jersey in 2013 by a wide margin, defeating state senate majority leader Barbara Buono.
2013: Out-of-State Travel Expenses
Governor Christie's out-of-state travel expenses in 2013 totaled $220,355, continuing a pattern of significant spending on travel.
2013: Decision Not to Defend Handgun Permit Law Challenge
In 2013, Christie decided not to defend a legal challenge against a New Jersey law mandating proof of imminent danger for handgun carry permits.
2013: Support for Medical Cannabis for Children
In 2013, Christie signed a bill simplifying access to medical cannabis for children in New Jersey.
February 3, 2014: Christie Denies Knowledge of Bridge Lane Closure Plan
During a radio interview on February 3, 2014, Governor Chris Christie emphatically denied any prior knowledge of or involvement in the plan to close lanes on the George Washington Bridge in 2013. Christie asserted that he only became aware of the traffic jams resulting from the closures after reading a report in The Wall Street Journal, following the reopening of the lanes.
March 2014: Court Ruling on RGGI Withdrawal
In March 2014, a court determined that Christie's withdrawal from RGGI had been unlawful. The court found that the governor had overstepped his authority, as state regulations did not grant him the power to unilaterally exit the initiative. The Christie administration responded by seeking to repeal the regulations that the court had cited as the basis for its ruling, indicating a continued effort to pursue an independent path on climate policy.
May 2014: Reduction of Pension Fund Contributions
Chris Christie, citing budget shortfalls, made significant cuts to New Jersey's contributions to public worker pension funds in May 2014, a move that faced criticism.
July 2014: Veto of Ammunition Magazine Size Reduction Bill
In July 2014, Christie vetoed a bill that would have limited ammunition magazine sizes and instead proposed changes to involuntary commitment laws for individuals with mental illness.
September 2014: Upholding of Gay Conversion Therapy Ban
In September 2014, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the law banning gay conversion therapy for children, which Christie supported.
September 2014: Higher-Education Partnership with Mexico
In September 2014, Chris Christie forged a significant partnership with Mexico in the realm of higher education. This collaborative endeavor was strategically designed to foster closer economic ties between New Jersey and Mexico. The program's core focus was on promoting research collaborations, establishing cross-border fellowship opportunities, facilitating student and teacher exchanges, organizing joint conferences, and creating other valuable educational opportunities.
September 18, 2014: Federal Investigation Finds No Evidence of Christie's Prior Knowledge in Bridge Scandal
On September 18, 2014, WNBC reported that, according to unnamed federal sources, the investigation conducted by the US attorney had uncovered no evidence to suggest that Governor Chris Christie possessed any prior knowledge of or had directed the George Washington Bridge lane closures. This revelation marked a significant development in the ongoing scandal.
October 2014: New Gestation Crate Ban Proposed
Undeterred by the previous veto, a similar bill (S998) was introduced in October 2014, seeking once again to prohibit the use of gestation crates. This bill passed with overwhelming support in both the Senate (32–1) and Assembly (53–13, with 9 abstentions).
October 2014: Legalization of Sports Betting in New Jersey
In October 2014, Chris Christie signed a bill that legalized sports betting in New Jersey.
November 27, 2014: Second Veto of Gestation Crate Ban
On November 27, 2014, true to his word, Christie vetoed the revised gestation crate ban (S998). Despite the bill's overwhelming bipartisan support and a pledge from its sponsor, Senator Raymond Lesniak, to override the veto, Christie stood firm in his opposition.
December 2014: NJ Legislative Committee Releases Interim Report on Bridge Lane Closures
In December 2014, the New Jersey legislative committee tasked with investigating the George Washington Bridge lane closures released an interim report on its findings. Notably, the committee acknowledged its inability to definitively determine whether Governor Chris Christie had prior knowledge of the closures, citing a request from the U.S. attorney to postpone interviews with certain key witnesses.
2014: Increase in Tolls, Fares, and Fees
To fund statewide projects, Christie authorized increases in 2014 for tolls, fares on transportation services, and various state licensing and administrative fees.
2014: Self-Proclamation as "Pro-Life Governor"
During a 2014 campaign stop, Christie declared himself the first "pro-life governor" elected in New Jersey since Roe v. Wade in 1973 and highlighted his vetoes of Planned Parenthood funding.
2014: Chris Christie Chairs Republican Governors Association
Chris Christie served as the chair of the Republican Governors Association during the 2014 campaign.
2014: Christie's Approval Ratings Decline Amidst Scandal
In the wake of the George Washington Bridge lane closure scandal in 2014, Governor Chris Christie's approval ratings experienced a significant decline, dropping from the 50-53 percent range to the 40s. This decline reflected the growing public controversy and scrutiny surrounding the incident and its handling by the Christie administration.
2014: Record Fundraising for the Republican Governors Association
In the early months of 2014, under Christie's leadership, the Republican Governors Association (RGA) achieved record-breaking fundraising numbers, significantly surpassing the amounts raised by their Democratic counterparts.
2014: Justice Department Investigates Allegations of Christie Tying Hurricane Sandy Relief Funds to Political Support
In 2014, the U.S. Department of Justice launched an inquiry into allegations that Governor Chris Christie had linked the distribution of state grants for Hurricane Sandy relief funds to political support for other projects. The allegations, if proven true, raised concerns about potential abuse of power and misuse of disaster relief funds.
2014: Out-of-State Travel Expenses
In 2014, Governor Christie's out-of-state travel expenses amounted to $492,420, raising concerns about the financial burden placed on New Jersey taxpayers.
2014: Veto of Hydraulic Fracturing Ban
In 2014, Chris Christie vetoed a bill (S253) that would have imposed a complete ban on hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") in New Jersey, as well as on the disposal of fracking waste within the state's borders.
2014: Receipt of Cato Institute Fiscal Report Card Grade
In 2014, Chris Christie received a B grade from the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank, for his fiscal policies as governor of New Jersey. This was the same year New Jersey experienced more credit rating downgrades.
2014: Republican Gubernatorial Gains
The 2014 elections saw significant gains for Republican gubernatorial candidates, with victories in several traditionally Democratic states. Chris Christie's leadership as chairman of the Republican Governors Association was seen as a contributing factor to these successes.
January 2015: Formation of Political Action Committee for Presidential Bid
In January 2015, Chris Christie took a concrete step toward a presidential candidacy by forming a political action committee (PAC). This move allowed him to raise funds and lay the groundwork for his anticipated 2016 presidential campaign.
March 2015: Endorsement of 20-Week Abortion Ban
In March 2015, aligning with potential Republican presidential candidates, Christie endorsed a ban on abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
April 2015: Mary Pat Christie's Career in Finance
As of April 2015, Mary Pat Christie held a managing director position at the Wall Street investment firm Angelo, Gordon & Co., having pursued a career in investment banking.
May 1, 2015: U.S. Attorney Declines to Press Charges Against Christie in Bridgegate
On May 1, 2015, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced that based on the available evidence, his office would not pursue further charges in the Bridgegate case. This decision effectively cleared Christie of any direct legal repercussions stemming from the scandal.
June 27, 2015: Launch of Presidential Campaign Website
On June 27, 2015, Chris Christie officially launched his presidential campaign website, marking a significant step in his pursuit of the presidency.
June 30, 2015: Chris Christie Announces Presidential Candidacy
On June 30, 2015, Chris Christie announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for the 2016 presidential election.
July 2015: Veto of Gun Records Bill and Subsequent Override
Christie vetoed a bill in July 2015 requiring notification of law enforcement when seeking to expunge mental health records for firearm purchases. The New Jersey Senate overrode his veto in October 2015.
December 2015: Donald Trump Alleges Christie's Knowledge of Bridgegate
In December 2015, while campaigning against Chris Christie for the Republican nomination in the 2016 presidential election, Donald Trump asserted that Christie was aware of the Bridgegate lane closures. Trump's claim, though unsubstantiated at the time, added fuel to the ongoing controversy and contributed to the political fallout from the scandal.
2015: Out-of-State Travel Expenses and Lawsuit
In 2015, official records revealed that Governor Christie's extensive out-of-state travel, primarily for presidential campaigning, resulted in substantial expenses for New Jersey taxpayers, totaling around $614,000. A lawsuit alleging misuse of taxpayer funds for personal political ambitions was eventually dismissed.
2015: Presidential Campaign and Absences from New Jersey
Throughout 2015, Chris Christie's pursuit of the presidency led to prolonged absences from his gubernatorial duties in New Jersey. His frequent out-of-state travels for campaigning drew criticism, particularly in light of the significant costs incurred by taxpayers and his perceived neglect of state matters.
January 2016: January 2016 United States blizzard response
In January 2016, amidst a major blizzard in the United States, Chris Christie faced criticism for his brief 36-hour stay in New Jersey before resuming his presidential campaign in New Hampshire, despite parts of the Jersey Shore being flooded. His dismissive response to concerns about his absence further fueled public disapproval.
February 10, 2016: Withdrawal from the Presidential Race
On February 10, 2016, following a disappointing performance in the New Hampshire primary, Chris Christie announced his withdrawal from the Republican presidential race. His decision to drop out came after months of campaigning and a significant investment of time and resources.
February 26, 2016: Endorsement of Donald Trump for President
On February 26, 2016, shortly after ending his own presidential bid, Chris Christie made a surprising move by endorsing Donald Trump for the Republican nomination. His endorsement, despite previous criticisms of Trump, was seen as a significant boost for Trump's campaign.
May 9, 2016: Appointment to Head Donald Trump's Transition Team
On May 9, 2016, Donald Trump, then the presumptive Republican nominee, selected Chris Christie to lead his presidential transition team. The appointment highlighted Christie's political experience and his close relationship with Trump.
September 2016: Federal Prosecutors Implicate Christie in Bridgegate Trial
During a September 2016 trial of two New Jersey government officials implicated in the Bridgegate scandal, federal prosecutors presented testimony alleging that a defendant and a witness had boasted to Governor Chris Christie about their involvement in the lane closures at the time. This revelation contradicted Christie's previous denials of knowledge and reignited controversy surrounding his role in the affair.
September 2016: Christie Acknowledges Fort Lee Lane Closure Scandal Impact
In September 2016, Chris Christie acknowledged that the Fort Lee lane closure scandal, also known as Bridgegate, played a role in his denial of nomination. He refuted Trump's earlier claims of his involvement in the closures.
October 13, 2016: Official Misconduct Complaint Against Christie Allowed to Proceed
On October 13, 2016, a significant development occurred in the Bridgegate saga when a complaint of official misconduct against Governor Chris Christie was permitted to move forward. The complaint alleged that Christie was aware of the lane closures on the George Washington Bridge while they were ongoing but failed to intervene and reopen them.
November 4, 2016: Christie Aides Convicted in Bridgegate Trial
On November 4, 2016, a federal jury found two former high-ranking aides to Governor Chris Christie, Bill Baroni and Bridget Anne Kelly, guilty on all charges related to their involvement in the Bridgegate scandal. The convictions marked a major development in the case, signaling a significant legal victory for the prosecution.
2016: Preparation for 2016 Presidential Run
Throughout 2016, Chris Christie actively prepared for his presidential campaign, engaging in fundraising, building a campaign team, and participating in early primary events.
2016: Chris Christie suspends presidential campaign
Chris Christie suspended his run for the Republican nomination for president in 2016 following a poor showing in the New Hampshire primary.
January 2017: Bergen County Prosecutors Decline to File Criminal Charges Against Christie
In January 2017, Bergen County prosecutors announced their decision not to pursue criminal charges against Governor Chris Christie in connection with the Bridgegate scandal. This decision marked a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings, effectively ending the possibility of criminal prosecution against Christie related to the lane closures.
February 2017: Christie Offered Secretary of Labor Role
In February 2017, Politico reported that Chris Christie had been offered the position of Secretary of Labor, which he apparently declined.
March 2017: Baroni and Kelly Sentenced in Bridgegate Case
In March 2017, Bill Baroni and Bridget Anne Kelly, former aides to Governor Chris Christie, received prison sentences for their roles in the Bridgegate scandal. Baroni was sentenced to two years in prison, while Kelly received an 18-month sentence.
March 2017: Trump Appoints Christie to Chair Opioid Commission
In March 2017, President Trump appointed Chris Christie to chair the Opioid and Drug Abuse Commission, an advisory committee addressing the opioid epidemic in the United States.
July 2017: Island Beach State Park Controversy
In July 2017, during a government shutdown that closed public beaches, Governor Christie sparked outrage when he and his family were photographed vacationing alone at Island Beach State Park. His use of a state helicopter to commute to the beach while other citizens were denied access drew accusations of hypocrisy and abuse of power.
2017: End of Governorship and Guadagno's Defeat
In 2017, Chris Christie's second term as governor of New Jersey came to an end due to term limits. His lieutenant governor, Kim Guadagno, ran to succeed him but lost to Democratic candidate Phil Murphy.
2017: Criticism of School Funding Proposal
Chris Christie's 2017 school funding proposal was met with criticism and was labeled as inequitable by education researchers.
January 2018: Christie Joins ABC News
Chris Christie joined ABC News as a regular network contributor in January 2018.
January 2018: Christie's Term as Governor Ends
Chris Christie's term as governor ended in January 2018.
January 2018: Ban on Bump Stocks
During his final days as Governor of New Jersey in January 2018, Christie signed legislation outlawing bump stocks.
January 16, 2018: Departure from Office and Low Approval Ratings
On January 16, 2018, Chris Christie officially left office as his successor, Phil Murphy, was sworn in. His departure was marked by historically low approval ratings, with estimates as low as 15%, reflecting the controversies and criticisms that plagued his later years in office.
May 2018: Open Records Act Challenges and Kushner Controversy
In May 2018, as Governor Christie was leaving office, his administration's handling of public records came under scrutiny. Revelations that his office spent over $1 million fighting Open Public Records Act requests and his attempts to control the release of his office's records, particularly those related to Jared Kushner's business dealings in New Jersey, raised concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest.
November 2018: Christie Considered for Attorney General
Chris Christie was reportedly considered for the role of United States Attorney General by the Trump Administration in November 2018. However, William Barr was ultimately selected for the position.
December 2018: Christie Declines Consideration for White House Chief of Staff
After meeting with President Trump in December 2018, Chris Christie stated that he did not want to be considered for the position of White House Chief of Staff.
2018: Christie Founds Lobbying Firm
Chris Christie founded Christie 55 Solutions, a federal lobbying firm, in 2018.
2018: Chris Christie's term as New Jersey Governor ends
Chris Christie's term as the Governor of New Jersey ended in 2018.
2018: Evolving Stance on Marijuana Legalization
In 2018, while personally opposing marijuana legalization, Christie acknowledged states' rights to legalize it, shifting from his previous stance of federal enforcement.
January 2019: Christie Publishes "Let Me Finish" and Enters Sports Betting Hall of Fame
Chris Christie published his book "Let Me Finish" in January 2019. In the same year, he was inducted into the Sports Betting Hall of Fame for his role in overturning the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, which had banned single-game sports betting outside Nevada.
May 2019: Christie Joins WeRecover as Senior Advisor
Chris Christie joined the tech firm WeRecover as a Senior Advisor on Strategy and Public Policy in May 2019, aiming to contribute his experience from the opioid task force to the private sector.
June 2019: Report Raises Concerns about Christie Joining Trump Administration
An 18-page report was released in June 2019 outlining potential concerns and questions regarding Chris Christie joining the Trump administration.
May 7, 2020: Supreme Court Overturns Bridgegate Convictions
The US Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling on May 7, 2020, overturning the convictions of Bill Baroni and Bridget Anne Kelly, two former aides to Governor Chris Christie, in the Bridgegate case. The court's decision effectively ended the legal proceedings against the individuals directly involved in the lane closures.
May 2020: Christie Calls for Lifting of COVID-19 Restrictions
In May 2020, Chris Christie argued for lifting COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, prioritizing economic concerns over strict public health measures. He acknowledged the inevitability of deaths but questioned the sustainability of prolonged restrictions.
September 29, 2020: Christie Assists Trump with Debate Prep
Chris Christie helped President Trump prepare for his first debate against Joe Biden on September 29, 2020.
October 3, 2020: Christie Tests Positive for COVID-19
On October 3, 2020, Chris Christie tested positive for COVID-19. Citing asthma as an underlying health concern, he was admitted to Morristown Medical Center in New Jersey the same day.
December 2020: Christie Hints at Potential 2024 Presidential Bid
In December 2020, Chris Christie hinted at the possibility of running for president in 2024 during an interview with radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt.
2020: Chris Christie Registers as Lobbyist
Chris Christie registered as a lobbyist in 2020.
2020: Passage of Millionaire Tax in New Jersey
In 2020, New Jersey passed a millionaire tax into law, a policy that Chris Christie had vetoed five times during his time as governor.
January 6, 2021: Christie Distances Himself from Trump Following Capitol Attack
Following the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, Chris Christie distanced himself from Donald Trump, signaling a break from his previous support.
March 2021: Christie Joins New York Mets Board of Directors
Chris Christie joined the board of directors for the New York Mets front office in March 2021.
September 9, 2021: Christie Urges Republicans to Reject Extreme Elements
In a speech at the Ronald Reagan Library on September 9, 2021, Chris Christie urged Republicans to reject extremist elements within their ranks, including QAnon, white supremacists, and election fraud conspiracy theorists.
2021: Christie Closes Lobbying Firm
Chris Christie's lobbying firm, Christie 55 Solutions, ceased operations in 2021 after earning approximately $1.3 million during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021: Renewable Energy Goal
Christie set a goal for New Jersey to achieve 22.5% renewable energy generation by 2021, demonstrating his commitment to diversifying the state's energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
2021: Christie Reveals Trump's Call During Hospitalization
In his 2021 book, "Republican Rescue," Chris Christie revealed that Donald Trump called him while he was hospitalized with COVID-19 and asked, "Are you gonna say you got it from me?"
October 2022: Christie Expresses Openness to 2024 Presidential Bid
During an appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher in October 2022, Chris Christie expressed his openness to a potential 2024 presidential bid.
March 16, 2023: Christie to Decide on Presidential Run
Chris Christie announced on March 16, 2023, that he would make a decision about running for president within 45 to 60 days.
May 31, 2023: Axios Reports Christie's Planned Presidential Campaign Announcement
Axios reported on May 31, 2023, that Chris Christie was planning to announce his presidential campaign in the near future.
June 6, 2023: Chris Christie Announces Second Presidential Campaign
Chris Christie announced his second presidential campaign for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential election on June 6, 2023.
June 2023: Christie to Remain on Mets Board During Presidential Run
It was reported in June 2023 that Chris Christie would remain on the board of directors for the New York Mets while running for president.
2023: Support for States' Rights on Abortion
In 2023, Christie expressed his belief that abortion should be determined at the state level and voiced opposition to a federal abortion ban.
January 10, 2024: Chris Christie Ends Second Presidential Campaign
Chris Christie dropped out of the Republican primary for president on January 10, 2024, before primary voting began.
April 2024: No Labels Abandons 'Unity Ticket'
The organization No Labels abandoned its attempt to run a 'unity ticket' in April 2024 after failing to find a suitable Democratic running mate for Chris Christie.
2024: Opposition to Bans on Gender-Affirming Care
During his 2024 campaign, Christie stated his opposition to Republican-led efforts to ban gender-affirming care for minors.
2024: Shifting Stance on Same-Sex Marriage
During his 2024 presidential campaign, Christie expressed respect for same-sex marriage, considering it legally settled.
2025: Christie Endorses Jon Bramnick for Governor
Chris Christie endorsed State Senator Jon Bramnick in the 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial election.