What is Bridgegate? A Political Scandal Involving Republican Governor Chris Christie

Chris Christie

Lately we've been hearing about the "Bridge Scandal" that has seriously damaged Chris Christie's political career.  Christie is the Governor of New Jersey and a leading member of the Republican establishment.  Many liberals like him, as do many  establishment Republicans.  Tea Party members, not so much.

Back in September, two of Christie's aids ordered lane closings in the city of Fort Lee, New Jersey, restricting access to the George Washington Bridge.  Five or so lanes are generally open to toll booths, but after the lane closings, only one lane and one toll booth were open.  This caused a huge traffic jam and a four hour delay.  One of two seriously ill people who needed to get to a hospital, died due to the traffic jam.  The lane closings went on for four days.

Per the LA Times, the lane closings were orchestrated by deputy chief of staff Bridget Anne Kelly telling David Wildstein, a Port Authority official and Christie appointee, that it was “time for some traffic problems in Fort Lee.”  On its face, the lane closings appear to be politically motivated and utterly malicious, but the reasons for the debacle are not clear.  It has been suggested that the aids sought revenge against Mayor Mark Sokolich of Fort Lee for refusing to endorse Christie for re-election.

Following the lane closings, Sokolich's requests for assistance were ignored.

These actions by Christie's allies were more than mean-spirited, they appear downright criminal as well.  These folks should be relocated to the nearest jail cell, in my opinion.  Using the power of the state to punish political opponents smacks of tyranny.

Here's a USA Today video that explains the lane closings with pictures and graphics.

Here is the article from the L.A. Times that also explains the story.