From Close Allies to Bitter Rivals: The Complicated Relationship Between Trump and Christie

Donald Trump and Chris Christie had a close relationship for many years. They first met in 2002, and Christie was a vocal supporter of Trump's business and political endeavors. In 2016, Christie endorsed Trump's presidential campaign after dropping out of the race himself. He then served as Trump's transition team chairman and helped him prepare for the debates.

However, the relationship between Trump and Christie began to sour after Trump took office. Christie was passed over for several high-profile positions in the administration, including vice president and attorney general. He was also reportedly sidelined by Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser.

In 2017, Christie was fired from the transition team after he was implicated in the "Bridgegate" scandal. Christie was accused of ordering the closure of lanes on the George Washington Bridge in retaliation for a New Jersey mayor's decision not to endorse him for re-election. Christie was never charged with a crime, but the scandal damaged his reputation and his relationship with Trump.

The final break between Trump and Christie came in 2020, after Trump lost the presidential election to Joe Biden. Christie was one of the few Republicans who publicly criticized Trump for refusing to concede the election and for his role in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

There are a few reasons why Trump may not have given Christie a job in his administration. First, Christie was a potential rival to Trump for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016. Second, Christie was implicated in the Bridgegate scandal, which damaged his reputation. Third, Christie was seen as too independent and outspoken by Trump and his inner circle.

Whatever the reasons, the relationship between Trump and Christie is now beyond repair. The two men have not spoken to each other since January 6, 2021.