Editor’s note: Though it’s still 2015, the 2016 presidential campaign is underway. The field is already crowded, and to help you keep track, we’re compiling this guide to recognizing candidates outside their natural habitats.
The candidate: Chris Christie
Species: Governor (Republican)
Primary habitat: New Jersey
Description: Though not yet a declared candidate, the New Jersey governor has all the markings of a Republican presidential contender. Most notable is Christie’s sudden change in habitat. Last week, Christie left the Garden State for time in the Granite State, where he hosted two town hall-style meetings in Londonderry and in Exeter on Friday, April 17.
Christie is known for a gruff and, at times, confrontational manner. His town hall meetings in New Jersey are tightly controlled and outbursts and shouted questions are not tolerated. However, in foreign habitats, Christie demonstrates a more tempered attitude.
In Exeter, for example, Christie fielded impromptu questions from the audience, according to media reports. Held in the early evening at Shooters Pub, the meeting included a passionate exchange between Christie and Exeter resident George Zeiter, who loudly challenged the governor’s statement that Social Security is an “entitlement.” That same week, Christie unveiled a plan for reforming Social Security should he win the 2016 election: gradually raising the retirement age to 69 beginning in 2022 and phasing out Social Security payments for those earning more than $200,000, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Similar to: The Republican nomination process is known to attract current and former governors. Current governors Scott Walker (Wisconsin), Rick Perry (Texas), Bobby Jindal (Louisiana), and John Kasich (Ohio) are all exploring a 2016 run; so are former governors Jeb Bush (Florida) and George Pataki (New York).
Range: Following his Exeter visit, Christie was seen in Missouri and Washington, D.C., according to the Wall Street Journal. He also made a recent stop at The Stone Church in Newmarket. A final decision on his possible presidential bid is expected in late spring or early summer. Expect more Seacoast sightings. — Larry Clow
Top of page: Chris Christie at Shooters Pub in Exeter (photo by Roger H. Goun)