The Chris Christie Effect

Donald Trump, Michelle Bachmann, and now Chris Christie. All of these public figures share two characteristics. One, they have enjoyed broad support at some point in the Republican primary season and two, they all have a "tell it as it is" style. Trump is famous for his combative style in the board room and on TV. His famous tagline, "your're fired" has garnered the attention of television audiences season after season of The Apprentice. Bachmann's support for the Tea Party and no-nonsense politics has garnered the attention of many. She stood up to new spending during August's debt debate and wouldn't give up ground, even with the consequence of defaulting on US debt. Now, Chris Christie is being seen as the savior of the Repubican Party. His Youtube videos taking on critics in town hall meetings have gotten him national attention. Unlike Bachmann and Trump, Christie's popularity has continued to grow. His recent speech at the Regan library highlighted the key difference between him and many of the other Republican Candidates.

While Trump and Bachmann have been polarizing figures, Chris Christie has been able to unite Democrat and Republican legislators in New Jersey to pass sweeping reforms. Agree with him or not, he has been an effective leader for a state associated with political dysfunction. When the US Congress is at a deadlock and unwilling to engage on important issues, this sounds like the type of candidate needed for the White House.

The lesson learned from Chris Christie is that a combative style will only move a candidate so far. It is a track record of BOTH being direct and being able unite that will garner sustainable popular report. While Trump and Bachmann may be remembered as a flavor of the week a year from now, Christie's name will continue to be mentioned for national office during this campaign cycle and many more to come.

Many of the current slate of Republican are breathing a sigh of relief with Christie's recent speech. For a candidate like Perry, Christie would be able to stand up to his Texas posture. Christie would have drawn attention to Romney's lack of charisma. When engaging the other candidates on the issues, Christie's ability to simplify the answer while proposing clear substance would shaken the debates up. The public wants a candidate that says what he thinks, does what he says, and translate this into results as President.

Whether as a candidate or adviser to the Party, Christie's style and substance will impact the Republican primary. To garner the type of lasting support Christie has enjoyed this year, candidates will need to directly talk to voters, highlight their ability to create results, and talk to them about issues in a way that makes sense.

For Huntsman to gain more support, I think he should should borrow a bit more from Christie's lessons on giving direct talk to the voters. This has been shown to be popular, especially with a candidate having the track record of being able to show results.