In a post last night I spoke about Governor Chris Christie’s (R-NJ) dilemma in deciding who to appoint to the U.S. Senate seat vacated recently by the death of Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ). That decision has come quicker than anticipated, and has surprised the entire political community.
The man whom Governor Christie picked was, as Politico said earlier today, the best kept secret in politics this week. His name hadn’t even surfaced as a possible contender. Few people know any of his political positions on issues, and he has indicated that he probably does not plan on running for the seat in October. The man himself is somewhat of a mystery. What is not obfuscated, however, are Mr. Christie’s priorities: by picking New Jersey Attorney General Jeff Chiesa (R) for the post he is playing it quite safe for his reelection this November, and may not have national political ambitions in 2016. Mr. Chiesa’s pick should neither hurt not help Mr. Christie’s chances at reelection this November–but with the governor leading his opponent, state Senator Barbara Buono (D) by 30 to 34 points in the four most recent polls, a neutral pick is all he needed.