How Much Chris Christie Does Tennessee’s Governor See In Himself?

Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam is complimentary of New Jersey’s Chris Christie, though stops well short of endorsing him to be the next President. Credit: TN Photo Services

Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam sees a lot to like about New Jersey’s Chris Christie, who takes over as head of the Republican Governor’s Association this week. At the group’s annual meeting, many governors have been questioned about the potential 2016 presidential contender.

Asked whether he’s cut from the same cloth as the New Jersey moderate, the trim and athletic Haslam responded with a weight joke, saying Christie’s “is cut a little larger than mine.” Aside from Christie’s much larger waistline, Haslam also points to his penchant for sparring with opponents.

The mild-mannered Haslam calls Christie “very much a New Jersey guy.” But he sees someone who is primarily interested in results and not partisanship.

“Chris is smart and tough and has been effective. But if you’re asking me if I’m endorsing him for president, no, we’re a long way from that point. But do I think Chris is a good governor? I do.”

Haslam and Christie are also both incredibly popular in their respective states, posting almost identical job approval numbers in recent polls of nearly 70 percent.