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Christie Questions Trump's Fitness for Office

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  Published in Business and Finance on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 4:42 GMT by Fox News
      Locales: New Jersey, California, New York, UNITED STATES

LOS ANGELES, CA - February 12, 2026 - Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has ignited a fresh wave of debate surrounding Donald Trump's potential return to the White House, bluntly questioning the former president's current mental and emotional capacity to hold office. In a candid conversation on Bill Maher's "Clubhouse Dwellers" podcast, Christie didn't mince words, expressing deep reservations that go beyond typical political rivalry. The comments arrive as the 2028 presidential election cycle begins to heat up, with Trump remaining a dominant - and divisive - figure in the Republican Party.

Christie's assessment, particularly striking given his past support for Trump, underscores a growing unease within moderate Republican circles about the direction of the party and the potential for another Trump presidency. He recalled his extensive involvement in Trump's 2016 campaign and his two endorsements, emphasizing that his concerns are not born of personal animosity but rather a genuine fear for the future of the nation.

"I don't know if he's fit right now," Christie stated unequivocally to Maher. "And I say that as someone who's been a big supporter of his. I endorsed him twice. I ran his campaign in 2016. But he's got to own up to the fact that he lost the election." This admission is particularly pointed, given Trump's continued and fervent denial of the 2020 election results, a stance that many believe actively undermines faith in democratic processes.

Christie's remarks aren't simply about winning or losing; they focus on Trump's continued obsession with the past and his unwillingness to accept reality. Experts in political psychology suggest that such rigid adherence to demonstrably false narratives can indicate a significant decline in cognitive function and a detachment from shared understanding. While Christie didn't explicitly diagnose Trump, his questioning of his fitness suggests he believes this behavior poses a tangible risk.

The former governor also highlighted the deleterious effect Trump's continued dominance is having on the Republican Party. He argues that the party has become overly focused on loyalty to one individual, stifling debate and hindering its ability to address pressing national issues. This echoes concerns voiced by other prominent Republicans, who fear the party is becoming increasingly isolated and out of touch with mainstream voters.

"I think that people have got to start looking at who's going to be the best person to lead this country," Christie urged, "Not just who they like, but who they think can actually do the job." This call for pragmatic assessment resonates at a time when many voters are disillusioned with partisan politics and seeking leaders who prioritize competence and unity.

Christie also revisited his involvement in the January 6th hearings, emphasizing the gravity of the events that unfolded at the Capitol and the importance of accountability for those who instigated the violence. His role in the hearings, providing firsthand accounts of his attempts to persuade Trump to concede the election, painted a damning picture of the former president's behavior and his willingness to disregard democratic norms. The ongoing legal battles stemming from January 6th continue to cast a long shadow over the political landscape.

When pressed on his own future plans, Christie remained deliberately ambiguous about his support for the upcoming 2028 presidential election. This reticence suggests he's carefully weighing his options and potentially considering a run himself, or at least positioning himself as a key voice in shaping the Republican platform. Analysts speculate he may be hoping to galvanize a moderate wing of the party frustrated with the direction it has taken.

Looking ahead, Christie believes the nation stands at a "critical juncture." The coming years, he argues, will define the future of American democracy and require thoughtful, responsible leadership. His assessment serves as a stark warning to voters, urging them to look beyond partisan loyalties and prioritize the long-term health of the nation. The implications of Christie's statements are far-reaching, potentially influencing the dynamics of the 2028 election and forcing a reckoning within the Republican Party.