"Now is not my time," New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie just said at a news conference in Trenton — ruling out a run for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination.
"New Jersey, whether you like it or not, you're stuck with me," Christie added.
Update at 1:35 p.m. ET. Not A Likely V.P.:
"I just don't see it," Christie just said, when asked about being a vice presidential candidate.
Update at 1:30 p.m. ET. His Reagan Library Speech:
As his news conference continues, the governor has referred several times to the address he gave on Sept. 27 at the Reagan Library in California. It's his take on the nation's problems, Christie said. Here's a link to where the video is posted.
Update at 1:17 p.m. ET. No Endorsement:
Christie said he is not ready to endorse a Republican presidential contender.
Update at 1:15 p.m. ET. Obama Has "Failed," Christie Says:
Repeating a theme he stressed during a recent speech at the Reagan Presidential Library, the governor just said that President Obama has "failed."
"Overall, he's failed the American people," Christie continued. The president hasn't passed the "absolute litmus test ... knowing how to lead and decide."
Update at 1:10 p.m. ET. More From Christie:
The governor said he did consider making a bid. He had been asked to run by many people, Christie said, and "felt an obligation to earnestly consider their advice."
But, "I asked for this job," he said about being governor. "I fought hard to get this job. And my job here isn't done. It just never felt right for me to leave."
Our original post: Will Christie Be 'Shermanesque?'
Sherman: He knew how to say no.
"If nominated I will not run; if elected I will not serve." Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman, in a message to the Republican Party convention.
That sort of definitive declaration even has its own name: Shermanesque.
So as we wait to hear exactly what New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has to say at a news conference scheduled for 1 p.m. ET (reports are that he's not running for the 2012 GOP nomination), keep that Sherman quote in mind.
Of course, some have said Christie's been pretty clear for weeks that he has no plans to get into the race. And Jon Stewart had some fun at the news media's expense last week on The Daily Show:
(Note: There's one bleeped expletive and a bit of naughty talk in the video.)
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