Gov. Christie Says Trade Not a Partisan Issue

WASHINGTON (AP) — New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says trade shouldn't be a partisan issue if America wants to get a leg up in the global economy.

The first-term Republican spoke Friday night at a Washington International Trade Association reception for governors and ambassadors. With his bombastic style and his tough fiscal policies, Christie has emerged on the national stage after just over a year as governor

Christie said his appointment by President Obama last year to a federal advisory panel on trade policy was proof positive that trade is not a Republican or Democratic issue. He urged states to get their fiscal houses in order to attract foreign business.

The nation's governors are gathered in Washington this weekend for their winter meeting.