Lautenberg says Christie is 'working to destroy the progressive state we've built'
U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg addresses a crowd in this January 2011 file photo. ATLANTIC CITY — At a speech at the Democratic State Convention this afternoon, U.S. Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) ripped into Gov. Chris Christie for cutting funding for family planning centers and other social programs.
At the “Women’s Step Up Luncheon,” Lautenberg called Christie’s cuts “shameful” and said he was “working to destroy the progressive state we’ve built.”
Lautenberg went on to criticize Democrats who have forged alliances with the governor, though he did not single them out by name.
“We see some Democrats sitting on their hands and even in some cases helping the Republicans, trying to move over on the other side to make up a few votes,” said Lautenberg. “It won’t help New Jersey if we leave the ranks of Democrats.”
Lautenberg’s speech only got more heated as it went on. He pointed out Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver and noted that Christie had once called one of her claims a “lie.”
“Gov. Christie actually called (Oliver) a liar in the press. Imagine Gov. Christie calling someone else a liar?” he said. “He’s the king of the liars.”
Oliver then took to the podium, saying she’s usually the only woman in the room when she meets with the Christie.
“Once in a while Lieutenant Gov. Kim Guadagno is able to be there, though she never says anything,” said Oliver. “And without question, I am the only person of color in that room. Now that is not reflective of the State of New Jersey."
Christie spokesman Michael Drewniak responded by mocking the Democrats.
"It’s nice to see the Democrats, including Senator Lautenberg, down there in AC having a good time. Don’t worry about the people’s business; we’re here in Trenton, working. Is it warm enough for the beach?" he said.
Related coverage:
• N.J. Democrats show solidarity with labor following move of convention from Tropicana