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Chris Christie Regrets Trump Endorsement

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 12:28 GMT by TV Insider
      Locales: New Jersey, California, New York, UNITED STATES

Sunday, February 8th, 2026 - Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie publicly voiced a stark reversal of fortune regarding his past support for Donald Trump, admitting to Bill Maher on HBO's 'Real Time With Bill Maher' that he regrets endorsing the former president. This admission, aired Friday, marks a significant moment as a prominent Republican figure openly disavows a decision once considered politically strategic, and highlights a growing unease within the party regarding Trump's enduring influence and actions.

Christie's initial endorsement came during the 2016 presidential election, and for years afterward, he remained a vocal advocate for Trump. However, his recent statements signal a clear and dramatic shift in perspective, largely fueled by the events surrounding the January 6th Capitol attack. He described the attack as a turning point, a moment that fundamentally altered his understanding of Trump's character and leadership.

"I made a mistake," Christie stated bluntly. "I think endorsing him back then was a mistake." This wasn't a nuanced critique couched in political maneuvering; it was a direct acknowledgement of flawed judgement. Christie elaborated that his decision was motivated by personal ambition, a desire to align himself with a perceived winner. "I wanted to be on the team," he confessed. "I wanted to be with the person who was going to win."

This confession is particularly noteworthy because Christie isn't simply offering post-hoc disapproval. He's admitting that he knew Trump possessed character flaws but prioritized political gain over principle. This raises uncomfortable questions for others who similarly supported Trump, forcing a reckoning with their own motivations and justifications. Was it genuine belief in Trump's policies, or simply a pragmatic calculation to stay relevant or advance their careers?

The fallout from January 6th continues to reverberate through the Republican party. While many remain fiercely loyal to Trump, a growing faction recognizes the damage he inflicted on democratic norms and the party's reputation. Christie's public denunciation joins a chorus of voices - albeit still relatively small - within the GOP attempting to distance themselves from the former president. However, this distancing is proving challenging, given Trump's continued popularity with a significant segment of the Republican base.

Experts suggest Christie's confession isn't merely about personal regret; it's a calculated move. While Christie isn't expected to mount another presidential bid, he is positioning himself as a voice of reason within the party, potentially hoping to influence the future direction of the Republican platform. He may see an opportunity to appeal to moderate Republicans and independents disillusioned by Trump's brand of populism.

The broader implications of Christie's statements extend beyond individual political maneuvering. They reflect a deeper struggle within the Republican party to define its identity in the post-Trump era. The party is grappling with the tension between appealing to Trump's loyal base and attracting a wider electorate. Can the GOP successfully navigate this divide? Will it attempt to move beyond Trump, or will it remain beholden to his influence?

Furthermore, Christie's criticism underscores the ongoing debate about accountability for the January 6th attack. While Trump has repeatedly downplayed his role, critics argue that his rhetoric and actions directly incited the violence. Christie's admission, though focused on his own endorsement, implicitly reinforces this argument, suggesting that Trump's behavior warranted a reevaluation of support.

Christie's statement, "He's shown himself not to be the person I thought he was when I endorsed him," is perhaps the most damning. It indicates that even those who initially believed Trump could deliver on his promises are now disillusioned by his actions and character. This sentiment is likely shared by many within the Republican party, but few are willing to voice it publicly, fearing backlash from Trump's supporters.

The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Christie's confession signals a broader shift within the Republican party. The 2024 elections will serve as a key indicator, revealing whether voters are ready to embrace a post-Trump Republican identity or remain loyal to the former president's vision. For now, Chris Christie's public regret serves as a potent reminder of the complexities and consequences of political ambition, and the enduring legacy of the Trump presidency.