Chris Christie to Challenger Buono: “See You On The Road”

Gov. Chris Christie spoke briefly Tuesday with the only major Democrat to enter the November governor's race against him so far, telling Sen. Barbara Buono: "See you on the road."

The Republican shook Buono's hand after his annual State of the State message and observed that the rivals were likely to meet on the campaign trail.

Buono recounted the exchange with Christie during a post-speech media event.

The Metuchen Democrat says the governor was correct to focus his speech on recovering from Hurricane Sandy, but says he needs to do more to create jobs and lower financial burdens on families.

Senate President Stephen Sweeney says Democrats are recruiting a candidate besides Buono, and that he may run. Democrats were left wanting when Newark Mayor Cory Booker declined to run.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)