WASHINGTON -- Two days after his high-profile lunch at the White House with President Donald Trump, Gov. Chris Christie was back in the nation's capital Thursday night.

The New Jersey governor -- a fellow Republican and longtime Trump friend and adviser -- was at a D.C. hotel to deliver a speech at the annual congressional dinner hosted by the Garden State's Chamber of Commerce.

But when his address was through, a group of reporters followed Christie on his way to the elevator to ask a few questions. Like, was he now headed across town for a return visit to the White House?

Yes, Christie said sarcastically.

"I'm going over there," he joked. "He's actually gonna make me emperor."

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No, really, one reporter pressed, was he on his way there?

"It's none of your business what's going on tonight," Christie playfully snapped. "If I wanted you to be there, I would have invited you."

For months, Christie has been pelted with questions about Trump, his friend of 15 years. Recently, he's been discussing the topic in national television interviews, often criticizing Trump's staff for the controversial rollout of some of the president's policies. That has re-fanned speculation that Christie could be seeking a job in Trump's administration.

After Thursday night's speech, a reporter asked Christie if he felt Trump's performance has improved in recent days.

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"I'm not sitting here tracking what's going on down here," the governor replied. "I've got a job to do at home."

Christie has also shot down rumors that he may soon work for Trump, stressing that he plans to finish his final year as governor. He said that Tuesday's lunch meeting includes no talk of a possible job.

"Guys, you should all take a deep breath," Christie told the gaggle of reporters Thursday. "Just take me at my word. I have told you I'm staying."

One more topic, though: Did he watch Trump's combative news conference Thursday afternoon?

"I caught bits and pieces of it when I was headed to get on the train to come down here," the governor said. "So I didn't catch all of it."

How did he think it went?

"The little bit that I saw?" Christie asked. "That's Donald Trump."

Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.

 

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