Christie not ruling out independent bid: ‘Would need to see a path to 270′

Former GOP presidential candidate Chris Christie has not ruled out running an independent bid, saying during his Tuesday interview on ABC’s “Good Morning America” that he “would need to see a path to 270” electoral votes if decided to jump back in.  

The former New Jersey governor, who dropped out from the Republican presidential race just days before the Iowa Caucuses in January, has not closed the door on a third-party presidential run.

“Well, what I’ve said in the past is that, I’d have to see a path for anybody, not just me, but I think anybody who would accept that would need to see a path to 270 electoral votes,” Christie said. “If there was ever a time in our lifetime when a third-party candidate could make a difference. I think it’s now the question, though, is, what kind of difference.”

One such vehicle for a third-party run would be with No Labels, a 501(c)(4) political organization that is aiming to garner ballot access in all 50 states and D.C. It has acquired ballot access in 14 states, so far.  

Christie has repeatedly deflected from the idea of being a No Lables candidate during his 2024 White House run. Now, he did not back down from the possibility. 

“Oh, I don’t know,” Christie responded when asked on Tuesday if he would consider being on the No Labels ticket. “There’d be a long conversation between me and Mary Pat, I can guarantee you that,” referring to his wife.

Christie added that No Labels has not asked him about running on a potential ticket.

The day after he ended his presidential run, NBC News reported that No Labels reportedly had conversations with Christie’s donors and allies.

In mid-July, Christie shut down the possibility of joining No Labels, saying “It’s a fool’s errand.”

Former Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), chair of No Labels, said last month that he would love to reach out to Christie and see if he would be interested in running. “He could be a very strong candidate,” Lieberman said. “That’s the kind of candidate No Labels is looking for.” 

During the interview on Tuesday, Christie added that a “strong Republican” potentially nominated under the No Labels banner would take away support from former President Trump, the likely GOP nominee, rather than from Biden. 

No Labels has come under criticism from Biden supporters, arguing that if it runs a “unity” ticket in 2024, it would take away more support from Biden, helping Trump in his comeback bid. 

The group has faced increased scrutiny, with two Democrat-leaning groups filing complaints, trying to force them to reveal their donors. Additionally, two mega-donors sued the group for pulling a “bait and switch” tactic.

The Hill has reached out to No Labels for comment.