America's next President & Vice President: Christie Aligns With Romney, Bolstering Him on the Right

(Photo from Jim Galloway AJC's Political Insider which has a good write-up on the endorsement)

From The New York Times:

Mitt Romney on Tuesday won the coveted endorsement of Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey, gaining a persuasive ambassador to populist conservatives and additional cover against attacks from the right.

The pugnacious, fiscally conservative Mr. Christie has been a bridge between the Republican Party establishment and the grass roots, and his endorsement helped cement the perception that the establishment, including many big donors, has now lined up behind Mr. Romney.

The value of political endorsements can be fleeting, but Mr. Christie was among the most sought-after figures inside the Republican Party, with Mr. Perry, Newt Gingrich and Jon M. Huntsman Jr. all seeking his support.

In explaining his choice, Mr. Christie suggested that Republicans needed to keep their eyes on the general election.

Inevitably, Mr. Christie’s endorsement set off fevered speculation as to whether he might be the vice-presidential running mate, should Mr. Romney win the nomination. After the announcement, Mr. Christie was asked about the possibility. “That’s going to be Governor Romney’s choice,” he said. “I’ve told him that my only interest is helping him get elected president.”