Christie Defends Skipping State Trooper Funeral
TRENTON, N.J. (CBS/AP) — The Latest on New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie returning to New Jersey after campaigning with Donald Trump.
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says he would not have attended the funeral of a state trooper even if he was in the state rather than campaigning for Donald Trump.
Christie told reporters Tuesday that he would have attended a groundbreaking in northern New Jersey if he was in the state.
He skipped Monday's funeral of Trooper Sean Cullen, who died after being struck by a driver as he responded to a car fire.
State Trooper's Fraternal Association President Christopher J. Burgos said in a statement. "We are focused on honoring our fallen brother today, and quite frankly we did not expect someone who has consistently shown disdain for law enforcement to pay his respects to the Cullen and State Police family. May Sean rest in peace. A wonderful family, tragic. The Governor's decision making is predicated on selfish political opportunism, that much is clear."
Christie has missed three police officer funerals while campaigning since December. He attended a state trooper's funeral in June before announcing his failed presidential campaign.
(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
