Chris Christie's Candid Comments on GOP Rivals Caught on Tape
In an unguarded moment, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie was overheard making dismissive remarks about Nikki Haley's presidential campaign and expressing skepticism over her ability to compete with Donald Trump.
Taylor Brooks
- 2024-01-11
- Updated 09:53 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - While Christie's own campaign expenses stood at a modest 12 million dollars, he pointed out that Haley had already spent approximately 68 million dollars on television advertising, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis 59 million dollars. Despite such significant expenditures, Christie was heard on a hot microphone claiming that Haley is "gonna get smoked" by the former President in the race. He further expressed doubts on her capability to truly contest the Republican nomination, a sentiment amplified by his own trailing position in the New Hampshire polls.
Revelations from a Hot Mic
Christie's candid commentary didn't stop with Haley; an audio recording revealed he also shared an anecdote about DeSantis. Christie relayed that the Florida Governor once characterized him as "petrified," possibly implying nerves in the race. These insights came to light shortly before Christie announced he would end his campaign, a move many saw as inevitable given his polling numbers and the pressure to consolidate Republican efforts against a Trump nomination.
Challenges on the Campaign Trail
With a town hall acknowledgment in Windham, N.H., Christie made it clear he saw no path to win the Republican nomination. This admission of defeat happened right before he formally suspended his campaign. Notably, upon exiting the race, Christie refrained from endorsing any of his former rivals, leaving questions open about his future involvement and support within the party.
Christie's comments have added another layer to the Republican nomination saga, highlighting the internal struggles and candid assessments often kept behind the scenes. His remarks may also prompt further discourse on the viability of candidates opposing Trump in what is shaping up to be a contentious and high-stakes primary season.
