RED BANK (AP) — Bon Jovi is playing a big role in the 2016 presidential campaign in New Jersey.

Jon Bon Jovi (L) and Governor Chris Christie
Jon Bon Jovi (L) and Governor Chris Christie  during a joint appearance in Sayreville (Tim Larson, Governor's Office)
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Rocker Jon Bon Jovi hosted a fundraiser for Democrat Hillary Clinton Monday night, and then Gov. Chris Christie used the New Jersey rocker's songs as his soundtrack as he announced he was entering the Republican primary Tuesday.

In a statement to Billboard, Bon Jovi says the music was used with his permission.  "My friendships are apolitical and yes, I absolutely gave him permission to use the songs,” he told the music business publication.

Bon Jovi also has a friendly relationship with Christie. Christie often plays his songs at town hall events.

There's no word how much was raised at the Clinton event at a restaurant in Red Bank. It was offering open seating for $1,000 a head and $2,700 per person for premium seats.

Pictures tweeted from the fundraiser showed Bon Jovi playing guitar.

 

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