Chathamites Mixed on Christie's Announcement

Chatham residents had a lot to say when they heard the news Tuesday that Gov. Chris Christie would not run for president in 2012.

Andrea Strutt, a Chatham resident who recently moved back to New Jersey after spending several years in California, said she was "disappointed" with Christie's announcement.

"I feel that what he did with the budget was necessary, and we really need someone like that in D.C. who can produce some sort of [balanced] budget," she said.

Debbie Howes disagreed. "He's cutting Medicaid and then he gets this reputation for slashing the budget. But at what cost?" she said.

Christie —again—at a 1 p.m. press conference in Trenton. Despite repeated denials in the past, Christie had refrained from commenting on a potential run in recent days, which led to speculation he was ready to change his mind.

"Everybody wants Christie to [run] because they're disappointed with what they saw in the debates. ... On the other hand, he's still young," Hany Elsharkawy, of Chatham said. "Maybe after another term when he has more experience."

"I wish he had gotten in because I think he would have been easier to beat than [former Mass. Gov. Mitt] Romney," Frank DiPrima said as he walked down Main Street.

Strutt had a different opinion. "I think some Republicans think he's too liberal, but I actually think that would have given him a good chance."

Township Committee Member Bailey Brower Jr. said he called Christie's office on Friday to urge the governor not to run.

"I think he'd do well in the presidential election," Brower said, "[but] I think that with the young children that he has and the commitment that he has to New Jersey, which is unfinished business, I think it's a very wise decision on his part."

Brower said Christie might have a better chance in a presidential campaign after he has more experience as a governor.

"He's done such a splendid job [in New Jersey]," he said.