Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has made explosive claims regarding the private sentiments of elected Republicans toward former President Donald Trump. During a recent appearance on the online segment 'Overtime' from 'Real Time with Bill Maher', Christie asserted that many Republican officials are far less complimentary of Trump when cameras are not rolling.
Private Criticisms Versus Public Praise
Christie detailed how fellow party members approach him in private settings, such as green rooms, to express agreement with his critical views. 'They'll say, "You're so brave. That's so great. I totally agree with you. [Trump's] nuts." And then they go out on camera to be interviewed, and they go, "The greatest president since Abraham Lincoln,"' Christie explained. He added that these individuals often return afterward to confess, '"You know, I have to do that, but like I don't really mean it."'
Senator Lindsey Graham Named
When pressed by host Bill Maher to identify specific Republicans, Christie singled out Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. This revelation has sparked controversy, with The Daily Mail reaching out to Graham's office for comment. Christie's allegations highlight a perceived disconnect between private Republican discourse and public political posturing.
Historical Context of Republican Relationships with Trump
The dynamics Christie describes are rooted in the 2016 Republican primary, where Christie, Graham, and over a dozen other candidates initially opposed Trump. Many of these figures, including Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz, who once harshly criticized Trump, have since become staunch supporters of his MAGA movement.
Notable Examples of Shifting Allegiances
Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, for instance, engaged in a bitter exchange with Trump during the 2016 campaign, with Trump implying Cruz's wife was unattractive and Cruz retaliating by calling Trump a 'sniveling coward'. Yet, after Trump secured the nomination, Cruz was photographed phone-banking for the Trump-Pence ticket. Similarly, Marco Rubio, now a key ally, once made disparaging remarks about Trump during the primaries.
Christie's Own Evolving Stance on Trump
Christie himself has a complex history with Trump. After initially running against him in 2016, Christie supported Trump, leading his transition team and serving as an informal advisor. However, their relationship soured following Trump's refusal to concede the 2020 election and the subsequent January 6 Capitol riot. Christie has been vocal in criticizing Trump's role in inciting the attack, which delayed electoral certification and led to numerous arrests.
Recent Political Developments
In the 2024 primary, Christie again challenged Trump but withdrew before any contests, with Trump ultimately dominating the vote. This backdrop underscores the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party, as Christie's claims shed light on the private doubts many elected officials may harbor despite public endorsements.
The revelations from Christie's interview suggest a significant gap between private Republican sentiments and public political performances, raising questions about party unity and authenticity in the current political landscape.
