New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s popularity got a boost after enacting controversial reforms to rein in pension and medical benefits for government workers and vetoing nearly $1 billion in spending measures, a new poll found.
The Monmouth University/NJ Press Media survey showed that 50 percent of Garden State registered voters approve of Christie’s job performance, while 41 percent give him a thumbs-down.
In May, the same poll found only 46 percent supporting his work and 49 percent disapproving. His positive rating jumped 4 points, and his disapproval rating dropped 8 points.
Republican Christie enraged Democrats in the state Legislature when he vetoed spending for their pet projects last month. One legislative leader even called him a “rotten prick.”
And angry union leaders vowed revenge for curtailing escalating pension and health benefits.
But Jersey voters — who pay among the highest taxes in the nation — saw things differently.
“Overall, the public has never been particularly happy with the size of the cuts Governor Christie has made in either of his budgets. However, they recognize New Jersey is in dire economic straits and continue to give the governor positive marks for leadership,” said Monmouth polling director Patrick Murray.