Christie Again Discusses Gubernatorial Campaign

by: huntsu

Thu Sep 11, 2008 at 01:57:27 PM EDT

Last week we learned that Chris Christie is actively participating in preparations to run for Governor, despite a blanket prohibition by the Department of Justice against US Attorneys engaging in political campaigns.

He sent his brother to "represent his interests" at the Republican National Convention, and had active communications with State Senator Jennifer Beck about joining his ticket as Lt. Governor.

Now we find out that Assemblyman Richard Merkt, who has announced his intention to run, discussed his interest in running for Governor with Christie, as well.

"I?m not a stalking horse," he said, still on the run. ""I talked to Chris Christie before I formed my exploratory committee. I told him what I was doing. He?s the favorite of the party insiders, and since I announced I was running, it?s been only party insiders who have leaned on me to get out of the race."

If Chris Christie wants to prepare to run for Governor he needs to resign his position. It is patently unethical and against Department of Justice policy to remain in the position while engaging in a political campaign.

In short, Chris Christie is abusing his office. Once upon a time that was something that precluded you from being Governor.

Update: Senator Beck now denies having discussions about the upcoming campaign with Christie, though she says she meets with him often.

huntsu :: Christie Again Discusses Gubernatorial Campaign

Tags: Richard Merkt, Chris Christie, (All Tags)

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Christie Again Discusses Gubernatorial Campaign | 3 comments

Where's the line... (0.00 / 0)

Do they clearly define "engaging in politics" in the Hatch Act? I mean, if he goes home at night and tells his wife, "I'm thinking of running for gov. next year." Is that a violation? If he says that same thing to his best friend, is that a violation? If Jen Beck is his best friend, is that a violation?

Does the law say what they consider 'Politicking'?

"Where ever you go, there you are." - Buckaroo Bonzai

by: William Weber (WjcW) @ Thu Sep 11, 2008 at 18:24:44 PM UTC

by: you @ soon

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It's more than Hatch (0.00 / 0)

US Attorneys have more stringent guidelines.

But I think talking over your future with your wife is a little different than discussing it with opponents, recruiting Lt. Governors and sending a delegation to a convention to stand up for you.

by: huntsu @ Thu Sep 11, 2008 at 20:40:04 PM UTC

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