TRENTON, N.J. — The chief spokesman for Republican Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey testified Tuesday that he was misled about why traffic lanes were closed at the George Washington Bridge last September and was “shocked and disoriented” when he learned that the motive appeared to be political vengeance.
The spokesman, Michael Drewniak, the most senior administration official to publicly testify before the committee looking into the matter, said neither the governor nor any of his closest advisers were involved in the lane closings.
“I can say with complete confidence and comfort that none of these people — starting with Gov. Chris Christie — had any involvement whatsoever in this reckless and perplexing episode,” he said.
Drewniak also denied playing any role himself.
“I had no knowledge or involvement in the planning or execution of this strange, unnecessary and idiotic episode that brings us here today,” he said.
At the same time, Drewniak, said the working relationship between officials from New York and New Jersey at the Port Authority was so toxic that it led him to dismiss concerns about the traffic jam.