New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie will receive a “Father of the Year” award from the National Father’s Day Council this June.
The Republican governor is the father of four children: Andrew, a sophomore at Princeton University; Sarah, who will attend the University of Notre Dame; and Patrick and Bridget.
“We are thrilled that Governor Christie has generously agreed to participate in our efforts to support Save the Children’s U.S. Programs,” said President and CEO of the National Father’s Day/Mother’s Day Council, Dan Orwig, and Group Director Men’s Division Itochu Prominent. “Each year we are excited to draw attention to a very worthy charity that works to break the cycle of poverty and improve the lives of children.”
Christie has frequently mentioned his children, especially his oldest son, Andrew. In his first television interview since details surrounding the “Bridgegate” scandal broke earlier this year, ABC’s Diane Sawyer asked the governor if he had discussed the scandal with his children.
“Our oldest son was home on break and he asked me, ‘Did you do this?’ It was a tough question,” Christie said. “That your son would ask you and I said, ‘No, I didn’t.’ And he said, ‘Good I’m glad.’”
In 2011, Christie also drew scrutiny for using a $12.5 million state police helicopter to attend Andrew’s high-school baseball game. After accusations that his personal trip cost New Jersey taxpayers, he later reimbursed the state.
Christie and his wife, Mary Pat, hosted the Princeton University baseball team at the governor’s mansion for Easter dinner on Sunday. Their son is the catcher for the Princeton Tigers. Christie will receive the “Father of the Year” award at a June 4 ceremony, along with this year’s other honoree, designer Vince Camuto. Christie joins a long list of notable honorees from the council that fundraises for various charities, including former President Bill Clinton, former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal, former NYC Mayors Michael Bloomberg and Rudy Giuliani, and New York Govs. Mario and Andrew Cuomo. The awards luncheon will take place at the New York Hilton Hotel.
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