Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie remains steadfast in his 2024 presidential bid despite calls from New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, who described Christie’s campaign as being “at an absolute dead end.” Christie, appearing on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, criticized Sununu’s remarks and refuted claims that he is solely focused on former President Donald Trump in the race. Christie highlighted Sununu’s previous critical comments about Trump, suggesting a change in stance after endorsing Nikki Haley in December. Despite polling challenges, Christie asserts he won’t withdraw from the race, dismissing such suggestions as “crazy.”
Sununu’s Criticism and Christie’s Response
During a CNN interview, Governor Sununu, who labeled Christie as a friend, expressed skepticism about the viability of Christie’s 2024 bid. Christie, responding on MSNBC, interpreted Sununu’s remarks as a political maneuver, stating that “when someone is going to knife you in the back,” they begin with “he’s my good friend.” Christie countered Sununu’s claim of him being a “one-man show” focused solely on Trump, recalling Sununu’s past criticisms of the former president.
Focus on New Hampshire and Polling Challenges
Despite polling at 3.8 percent nationally and 11.1 percent in New Hampshire, according to FiveThirtyEight, Christie remains committed to his campaign. Losing Sununu’s endorsement dealt a blow to Christie’s efforts in New Hampshire, a state he has prioritized. Undeterred by the low polling figures, Christie affirmed that suggestions of dropping out are unfounded.
Christie Criticizes Sununu’s Endorsement of Haley
Christie has criticized Sununu’s endorsement of Nikki Haley, accusing the New Hampshire governor of adopting a “‘offend no one’ position.” He suggested a shift in Sununu’s stance since working for Haley and questioned the sincerity of his support for Trump, alleging that Sununu previously stated Trump belonged in a mental institution.
Sununu Urges Christie to Endorse Haley
Governor Sununu, after endorsing Nikki Haley, encouraged Christie to endorse Haley and help “deliver Trump the loss.” While not explicitly telling Christie to drop out, Sununu suggested Christie could stay relevant by supporting Haley. He characterized Christie’s chances as limited and encouraged him to play a role in boosting Haley’s campaign.
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