Christie Has Harsh Words For Akin; Offers Hint About RNC Keynote Speech
NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- As Gov. Chris Christie continues to finalize his keynote address for next week's Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., he's not lost for harsh words when it comes to Missouri Rep. Todd Akin.
During a speech at Rutgers University in New Brunswick on Wednesday, Christie was asked about the firestorm surrounding Akin's remarks about rape and abortion. The Missouri Republican is in a tight Senate race against incumbent Sen. Claire McCaskill.
"I've made very clear, the things that Congressman Akin said are incomprehensible," Christie said. "I listened to the video three times. It's just, I can't make heads or tails of it -- some of the stupidest stuff I've ever heard in my life. I don't think he has any business running for the United States Senate anywhere when you're thinking something that's that inane. But, listen, it's a free country. He gets to run. The people of Missouri get to vote. We'll see what happens."
"Forget 'he should drop out of the race,' he should drop out of public life," Christie added. "I don't care what he said. I'm offended by what he thinks."
As far as his upcoming keynote address, he hasn't given any hints as to what will be in the speech but he said one phrase definitely won't be making the cut: "The Jersey comeback."
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The phrase became a motto of his to tout bills and reforms passed during his tenure. But Democrats have used the phrase to attack his economic policies.
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"Those three words aren't in the speech. Not going to tell you about any of the other words that are in the speech. You'll have to wait til Tuesday, but those three words never were in."
When asked about taking the national stage in a high-profile role, the governor said he's looking forward to the opportunity.
"I'm not nervous yet," Christie told reporters. "I'll be ready. You all watch, I'll be ready," he said.
The governor said he doesn't think the Akin firestorm will last much longer.
"I don't think it's going to affect the presidential race, no I don't. I'm not concerned about any of that stuff. It's not even going to effect the convention. By the time we get to the convention, my guess is this is going to be an old story and you guys will all be on to something else," Christie said.
Akin has vowed to stay in the race but said he will not be going to the convention in Tampa, Fla.
The convention begins on Monday and runs through Thursday, when Mitt Romney is expected to formally accept the party's nomination for president.
Will you be watching the Democratic and Republican conventions? What do you want to hear from Gov. Christie's keynote address? Share your comments below.
