Christie Apologizes Over Lane Closures, Fires Top Aide (+video)

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie publicly apologized Thursday for controversial lane closures last year that were arranged by his associates as an apparent act of political revenge, and fired a top aide who was at the center of the scandal.

“I come out here to apologize to the people of New Jersey,” he said. “I am embarrassed and humiliated.”

The governor added: “I am stunned by the abject stupidity that was shown here.”

The governor is trying to get a handle on the scandal, which could threaten the potential 2016 presidential candidate’s political aspirations. He’s also facing various legal inquiries. The U.S. attorney’s office in New Jersey confirmed Thursday that it is now “reviewing” the matter to “determine whether a federal law was implicated.”

Christie stressed Thursday that he was not involved and that while his political style is tough, “I am not a bully.” He said repeatedly that he was betrayed by his staff.

Read more from this story HERE.