N.J. Gov. Christie apologizes, fires aide over bridge flap
TRENTON, N.J. - New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, a possible Republican White House contender enmeshed in a scandal over his staff plotting intentional traffic jams at a busy bridge in a political vendetta, met with reporters Thursday and apologized for the actions of his staff.
Christie said he was embarrassed and humiliated and said he fired his top aide because "she lied to me."
The scandal erupted with the public release of incriminating emails showing a top Christie aide played a key role in closing some lanes leading to the George Washington Bridge, a ploy seen as meant to punish a local Democratic mayor.
Christie said he is still looking into the possible role of other staff in the scandal and will take action if needed, he said.
Christie added that he is "heartbroken" that the aide betrayed his trust. He said he was "blindsided" but he admitted he is ultimately responsible for staff actions "under my watch."
He said he will go to Fort Lee to personally apologize to the mayor.
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