Politics & Government

Chris Christie Visits South Jersey In Second Public Appearance Since Scandal Broke

Christie attended a ceremony to mark the confirmation of Justice Faustino Fernandez-Vina to the state Supreme Court.

In his second public appearance since the "Bridgegate" scandal broke, Gov. Chris Christie came to Camden County Friday to attend a ceremony marking the swearing in of the state's newest Supreme Court justice, Faustino Fernandez-Vina of Barrington.

Christie spoke at the top of the program and quickly reminded the audience of nearly 150 at Rutgers University's Camden campus why his political stock was rocketing before allegations of the political-retribution scandal came to light. 

Christie leaned into the podium Friday afternoon and spoke extemporaneously about Fernandez-Vina, who has a nickname of Fuzzy. 

"I have to tell you that when I was considering him it was one of the things that was a hold up to me," Christie said. "So, it's Justice Fuzzy then. I think one of the earliest thing that struck me was that attitude. It describes quite well not only who he is, but who he wants you to know he is."

Fernandez-Vina said he was "honored and humbled" by the appointment.

"Governor I thank you for supporting me and I thank you for having confidence in me."

Fernandez-Vina, a Republican, is the first high-court nominee of Christie's to be approved in nearly two years. He was initially sworn in in November and has already begun hearing cases on the high court.



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