Christie spoke at the swearing-in of Superior Court Judge Donna Galluccio in Paterson Watch video
Gov. Chris Christie looks toward a lone news photographer as he escorted through a back door at the Passaic County Courthouse for the swearing in of Judge Donna Gallucio. Christie did not comment on speculation he may run for president.PATERSON — Gov. Chris Christie did nothing today to allay speculation about a possible presidential run in his second public appearance in as many days.
Christie spoke at the swearing-in of Superior Court Judge Donna Galluccio, who was an assistant U.S. Attorney when Christie ran that office.
Beginning his remarks, Christie joked that he walked into the building “a little preoccupied and a little worried.”
“I came in here today with a number of things on my mind and then my mind was completely clear, for I walked in here and saw you sitting at the counsel table,” he said.
In remarks aimed at Galluccio — but sure to be picked apart by politics watchers looking for signs — Christie said people tend to “blow smoke” at those who hold powerful positions.
“You can become intoxicated by that smoke. And you can wind up, as the smoke gets thicker and thicker, losing your way. Losing that inner compass that we all hope remains true to who we are and what our role is in whatever position or authority we hold,” he said. “I am confident that no matter what smoke is blown from this counsel table up towards Donna on the bench that she will not lose her sense of self.”
After the ceremony, Christie shook hands then was whisked out of the courtroom through a private exit. He ignored questions from reporters. Sunday, Christie also kept a distance from the press at a National Guard review ceremony in Sea Girt and ignored their shouted questions.
The ceremony attracted an enormous amount of media interest. About 10 television news trucks parked outside, and the courtroom was packed with several print reporters and three television cameras. Judge Donald Volkert, who presided over the ceremony, joked that he would “take this opportunity to dispel a burning question.”
“And that is no, I’m not running for anything,” said Volkert.
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