Former Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie said Wednesday he will not run as a third-party candidate.
“I appreciate the encouragement I’ve gotten to pursue a third-party candidacy. I believe we need a country that once again feels like everyone has a stake in what we’re doing and leadership that strives to bring people together, instead of using anger to divide us,” the former New Jersey governor said in a statement on Wednesday.
“While I believe this is a conversation that needs to be had with the American people, I also believe that if there is not a pathway to win and if my candidacy in any way, shape or form would help Donald Trump become president again, then it is not the way forward,” he continued.
A spokesperson for Christie confirmed that he has decided against running as a candidate with No Labels, as the group continues to pursue launching a third party moderate ticket.
CNN reported earlier this month that No Labels officials had talked with advisers to Christie.
Several prospective candidates and members who had heard No Labels’ pitch previously told CNN they had been left skeptical of the group’s plans. No Labels officials have repeatedly said they don’t want to become a spoiler that would help Donald Trump win a second term. Meanwhile, they have urged prospective candidates and others to prioritize accusing President Joe Biden of having politically toxic positions he does not actually hold.
BACK TO HOMEPAGE
