On Sunday’s edition of NBC’s “Meet The Press,” the ex-governor of New Jersey—who had previously canceled his own presidential candidacy in 2024—discussed Trump’s most recent remarks regarding Vladimir Putin.
During his speech at a rally earlier this week, Trump made the following statement on Russia’s refusal to pay their due part of military spending:
“A president from a major country raised his voice and said, ‘Sir, would you defend us if we don’t pay and Russia attacks?’” Did I mention that you’re delinquent since you didn’t pay? He agreed. In that case, I would not be the one to shield you. To the contrary, I would wholeheartedly support their decision to do anything they choose. The price is on you. Paying your bills is an absolute must.
When anchor Kristen Welker asked Christie about the remarks, he said they were “extremely improper” coming from a candidate for president:
“This is the reason I have long held the opinion that he is unqualified to hold the office of president. Saying to a NATO member, “Hey, you have to hand over the dues you owe,” is one thing, and I don’t necessarily disagree with that. I believe it is a reasonable expectation for a president to have, but Donald Trump has to go beyond that. He says that I would support Russia’s decision to do anything they want to you. That is in keeping with his admiration for autocrats, but it is completely unacceptable for a U.S. president or presidential candidate.”
According to Christie, these remarks show that a second Trump administration would be dangerous for American national security:
“The fact that he may run for president again is what threatens our nation’s safety. Kristen, that is the threat to national security because we must believe him when he says he will. As I mentioned before, Donald Trump was terrified on taking office in 2016. Being president was terrifying for him. The thought of making a fool of himself terrified him. He sought advice from many capable individuals, including Generals Mattis and Kelly, among others, since he was aware he was unprepared. He wouldn’t do it in his second term.”
In contrast to other Republicans who have spoken out against Trump, Christie has stated that he will not be considering voting for Joe Biden, even if he has been critical of Trump.
