Cuccinelli says Christie should leave RGA

NEW YORK -- A recent Republican gubernatorial candidate says "it makes sense" for New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie to step down as chairman of the Republican Governors Association.

Former Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli said on CNN's "Crossfire" on Tuesday that Christie "does not serve the goals" of the RGA by finishing the rest of his one-year term.

Cuccinelli lost Virginia's governor's race last fall. He becomes one of the first Republican officials to suggest Christie steps down while Democrats probe abuse-of-power allegations in New Jersey.

Christie's role with the RGA is seen as a significant stepping stone for a prospective presidential run.

He traveled to Florida this weekend to raise money for Florida Gov. Rick Scott. They did not appear together publicly.

An aide said Friday that Christie would remain RGA chairman.