Watch CBS News

Donald Trump taps Chris Christie to lead presidential transition team

Donald Trump says he'd like to have House Speaker Paul Ryan's support, but that if he doesn't get it, he doesn't think it will hurt him at all
Rift between Donald Trump and GOP deepens 05:46

Donald Trump on Monday announced that he has selected New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie to lead his presidential transition team.

"Governor Christie is an extremely knowledgeable and loyal person with the tools and resources to put together an unparalleled Transition Team, one that will be prepared to take over the White House when we win in November," Trump said in a statement.

As chairman of the presumptive GOP nominee's transition team, Christie will oversee an extensive team as they prepare for the White House.

Chris Christie: "I wasn't being held hostage" by Donald Trump 04:04

"I am honored by the confidence being placed in me by Mr. Trump and look forward to putting together a first rate team to assemble an administration to help best serve the President-elect and the nation," Christie said in a statement provided by Trump's campaign.

Christie, who endorsed Trump in late February, could be a possible vice presidential pick, but his new role might reduce the odds of that happening. He claimed at the time of his endorsement that he wasn't offered any spot in a Trump administration.

The New Jersey governor stood beside Trump last Tuesday at his election night event in Trump Tower after his victory in Indiana and after Ted Cruz dropped out of the race. Christie dropped out of the 2016 race after New Hampshire's primary in early February. His current term as governor ends in January 2018.

Trump has also selected Ben Carson, who also ran for president during this cycle, to help with the search for a vice presidential running mate.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.