Christie Says GOP Lawmakers Privately Criticize Trump but Publicly Defend Him
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie believes many Republican leaders talk about Trump differently in private than in public. Christie described what he claims happens behind closed doors in his party on HBO’s “Real Time with Bill Maher.”
Christie, a Republican who has grown vocally critical of Trump since the 2020 election, was asked what Republicans say when cameras are off and the public is not listening. The subject arose during a Washington political honesty and transparency conversation.
Christie replied that numerous Republicans privately support his Trump attacks. Sometimes lawmakers secretly approach him in private settings like television studio green rooms to applaud his openness. Christie says they call him “brave” and share concerns about Trump’s actions and leadership.
Christie said the tone changes when those people appear in front of cameras. After privately criticizing Trump, lawmakers publicly defend him, sometimes calling him one of the best presidents in American history. Christie said some subsequently return and explain they didn’t believe what they stated publicly but felt political pressure.
Christie spoke generalities with others. He cited South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham when asked. His comment sparked a loud studio audience response.
During Graham’s 2016 Republican presidential campaign, Christie used his words. Graham publicly called Trump “unfit for office” and warned that if he became nominee, the Republican Party would suffer. Graham eventually became one of Trump’s closest Senate allies, backing him in interviews and public appearances.
Christie said that Washington relationships can change over time and that political access and loyalty may affect such shifts. His statements show Republican Party difficulties as it navigates Trump’s impact.
Christie has become more independent within the GOP since leaving office as governor. He no longer supports Trump after the 2020 election. Christie has consistently pushed his party to go forward with better leadership and accountability after Trump’s election results comments.
HBO’s argument echoes a larger American political debate about openness, party loyalty, and private-public messaging. Christie’s comments show Republican leadership may have internal issues, even if voters don’t see them.
The Republican Party’s identity and strategy revolve around Trump as it prepares for future elections. Christie’s statements suggest that private attitudes may be more complicated than party leaders’ emphasis on public unity.
His comments fueled a Washington debate about political daring and honesty. Whether other Republican politicians address his charges is unknown.
For voters, the exchange shows how political message may vary by audience. It raises larger questions about leadership, party dynamics, and the future of one of America’s two major political parties.
Sources
HBO – Real Time with Bill Maher
Public statements made during televised interview featuring Chris Christie and Chrystia Freeland