Jay Carney told the press aboard Air Force One that President Barack Obama respects New Jersey governor Chris Christie and his efforts. Via the pool report:
Jay Carney gaggled on the very brief flight to New Jersey. Quick highlights:Syria: Carney said the admin welcomes the EU action; on Russian arms sales said it does not bring the country closer to the desired political transition … WH is aware of McCain’s trip … looks fwd to speaking to McCain on his return … JC would not say whether McCain carried a msg from potus …On Gov. Christie, Carney said potus thinks he has done an excellent job on the efforts he has undertaken to rebuild … The best way for recovery to happen is by cooperation among levels of govt … Potus is going on this trip to highlight his ongoing commitment to recoveryOn the personal relationship between the two: president has respect for Gov Christie and his efforts … JC responded to question about whether FEMA has been slow to build flood plain maps — referred to FEMA but said overall it has been efficient… More work needs to be done On Chinese hacking: cybersecurity is a key concern, says it will be a topic of discussions when Obama meets with Xi in JuneIraq — US is monitoring the increase in violence in that country
