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Chris Christie Declines Third-Party Presidential Run with No Labels

Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie speaks during a Republican presidential primary debate on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. | Gerald Herbert/AP

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has announced that he will not run for president with No Labels, dealing a blow to the centrist group’s efforts to form a third-party ticket.

Decision Against Presidential Run

Christie, who previously ended his Republican presidential campaigns before voting began, stated that while he received encouragement to pursue a third-party run, he has decided against it. In a statement, Christie emphasized the need for leadership that brings people together and expressed concerns about the potential impact of his candidacy on the 2024 presidential election.

Concerns About Pathway to Victory

Expressing his belief in the importance of engaging in conversations with the American people, Christie also highlighted his apprehensions about contributing to the reelection of former President Donald Trump. He emphasized that if his candidacy would inadvertently support Trump’s return to office, then it would not be the way forward.

Shift in Stance

While Christie had initially dismissed the idea of a third-party run while competing directly against Trump in the Republican primary, he reconsidered the possibility after ending his bid. His decision reflects his commitment to preventing Trump from securing another term in the White House.

Rejections and Challenges for No Labels

Christie’s decision adds to a series of rejections faced by No Labels in its quest to field a third-party candidate. Prominent figures like Senators Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, as well as former Governor Larry Hogan and former Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan, have declined offers to run. This setback comes as the organization grapples with the challenge of securing viable candidates for its proposed presidential ticket.

Final Decision Pending

No Labels has indicated that it will make a final decision about proceeding with a presidential ticket by early April. Despite facing obstacles, the organization asserts that it has secured ballot access in more than a dozen states, underscoring its commitment to fostering bipartisan solutions in American politics.

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