Chris Christie ally: N.J. governor was happy to hear about bridgegate problems

David Wildstein testified that the governor was told about the incident during a Sept. 11 memorial event

By The Associated Press

Published September 27, 2016 7:31PM (EDT)

FILE - In this Aug. 29, 2016 file photo, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie laughs at a question from the media after speaking in Trenton, N.J. Donald Trump is pledging that the government he appoints will bring sweeping change to Washington’s culture. (AP)
FILE - In this Aug. 29, 2016 file photo, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie laughs at a question from the media after speaking in Trenton, N.J. Donald Trump is pledging that the government he appoints will bring sweeping change to Washington’s culture. (AP)

NEWARK, N.J.  — A former high-ranking transportation official who pleaded guilty in the George Washington Bridge traffic scandal says New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie was told about the gridlock as it was unfolding and seemed to be happy about it.

David Wildstein testified Tuesday he told Christie at a Sept. 11 memorial event about traffic in Fort Lee on the third day of the four-day shutdown in 2013.

He says defendant Bill Baroni told Christie that the mayor of Fort Lee was frustrated he wasn't getting calls returned and that Wildstein was monitoring the situation.

Wildstein says Christie then replied sarcastically that he was sure that "Mr. Edge" wouldn't be involved in politics. Wildstein used the pseudonym "Wally Edge" while publishing a New Jersey politics website.

Christie has denied Wildstein told him about the plot.

 


By The Associated Press