Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie suggested on Sunday that former President Trump’s endorsement of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s GOP opponent in 2022 is responsible for Shapiro’s rising popularity.
During an appearance on ABC News’s “This Week,” Christie, who ran for the GOP presidential nomination last year, stated that Shapiro should be Vice President Harris’s choice for her running mate, given his strong standing as speculation grows about Harris’s upcoming selection.
“I don’t see this as a tough decision. Shapiro is an exceptionally skilled politician with high popularity—65 percent approval in a crucial state. If Harris chooses him, it’s clear that Trump played a role in creating Shapiro’s prominence,” Christie said.
Chris Christie, former Governor of New Jersey, and Donald Trump
He criticized Trump for endorsing state Sen. Doug Mastriano, the weakest Republican candidate in the 2022 gubernatorial race, which allowed Shapiro to appeal to a broad coalition. “Trump’s poor endorsement choice enabled Shapiro to build a strong coalition and gain widespread support,” Christie explained.
Christie asserted that Trump’s flawed endorsement was a significant factor in Shapiro’s success and potential future impact. “If Shapiro ends up winning and Trump loses Pennsylvania, Trump’s 2022 endorsement will have contributed to that outcome,” Christie remarked.
Christie also emphasized the importance of the vice presidential pick, stating it would reflect Harris’s effort to appeal to a wider audience and demonstrate her decision-making process. “The choice matters significantly as it shows whether Harris is trying to engage the entire party and country,” he noted.
Among the potential vice presidential candidates are Shapiro, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. Shapiro, who served as Pennsylvania’s attorney general from 2017-2023, has connections with Harris through the Democratic Attorneys General Association.
