WASHINGTON — Embattled New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie finally has something to crow about.
The Republican Governors Association, which Christie is leading this year, announced Monday that it raised $50.3 million in 2013, eclipsing the $30 million haul at the same time four years ago.
The group also boasted that it has twice as much cash on hand as in 2009, with a $50 million bankroll heading into the 2014 election season.
Most of the money was raised by previous RGA chairmen, but the impressive tally nevertheless provided Christie a welcome distraction from the Bridgegate scandal and other investigations targeting his administration.
“Republican governors are acting boldly, making tough decisions and providing strong leadership for their states in a way that Washington simply is not,” said Christie, adding that the RGA is in a “strong position to support our candidates and governors this year.”