Chris Christie is using New Jersey police on the campaign trail — and nobody knows who's paying

(Image credit: Andrew Burt/Getty Images)

published 6 January 2016

The cost of New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's security detail could be well over $1 million — but since Christie's security happens to be the New Jersey State Police and since his campaign isn't explaining who is footing the bill, things could get a little tricky:

It is possible that Christie's presidential campaign is reimbursing the state police for expenses incurred in the course of the presidential campaign, although that would be a shift in Christie's approach. He has previously defended using his security detail on political trips.Christie spokesman Kevin Roberts wouldn't answer several questions about how tax dollars might be used, citing a pending lawsuit from liberal groups in New Jersey that say Christie is violating his fiduciary responsibility by spending so much on his campaign. Roberts referred questions to the state police, but Lt. Brian Polite also didn't respond [...] WNYC previously filed suit to get the costs incurred by Christie's travels, but judges have ruled that details about spending — including the names of the hotels — could jeopardize Christie's safety. [WNYC]

Other campaigns, such as Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker's short-lived presidential run, pay for security by refunding the state — although Walker ultimately dropped out of the presidential race citing financial concerns. WNYC notes that Ohio Gov. John Kasich has also kept mum on how he's paying for security out-of-state and Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, also out of the race, was in hot water at one time for charging his protection costs to taxpayers.

Adding to all the trouble is the fact that Christie spent 261 days last year outside of New Jersey; out-of-state security adds up fast when hotel rooms, gas, salaries, and possible overtime costs are accounted for. Additionally, Christie uses at least two state-owned SUVs when campaigning in New Hampshire.

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Listen to Matt Katz, WNYC's designated "Christie tracker," explain the situation below. Jeva Lange

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Jeva Lange was the executive editor at TheWeek.com. She formerly served as The Week's deputy editor and culture critic. She is also a contributor to Screen Slate, and her writing has appeared in The New York Daily News, The Awl, Vice, and Gothamist, among other publications. Jeva lives in New York City. Follow her on Twitter.