NJ Star-Ledger Endorses Christie with 'Deep Reservations, Better at Politics than Governing'

New Jersey's Newark-based Star-Ledger newspaper has endorsed Republican Gov. Chris Christie for re-election despite a running feud between the editorial editor and Governor's Mansion.

The grudging endorsement acknowledged that Christie is a remarkable political talent who managed to split the Democratic legislative majority. The Star-Ledger had little positive to say about his governing ability. Citing "modest" achievements overwhelmed by "measurable failures" then concluding: "He is much better at politics than he is at governing."

The paper complained that property taxes are up, the budget is depleted, the state's credit rating has dropped and that Christie threatened the independence of the judiciary.

Even on his handling of Hurricane Sandy – widely applauded in New Jersey – the record is, in fact, mixed, says the paper.

The Star-Ledger concludes it unenthusiastic endorsement with: "Our own view is that Christie is overrated. His spin is way ahead of his substance."

The editorial writer said the newspaper endorsed Christie only because State Sen. Barbara Buono, his progressive Democratic challenger, "is a deeply flawed candidate" beholden to the unions and lacking in political acumen.

Christie once mocked Star-Ledger Editorial Page Editor Tom Moran as "the thinnest-skinned guy in America," according to Business Insider.

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