Christie comes to Perry’s defense after indictment

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) -- New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is coming to Rick Perry's defense.

The chair of the Republican Governors Association released a statement Monday defending his Texas counterpart, who was slapped with two felony counts of abuse of power Friday.

Christie says he has "complete faith and confidence" in Perry's honesty and integrity. He says he's "sure that will be confirmed over time."

Perry is the latest potential 2016 contender to find himself in legal hot water. Christie's administration is under investigation for allegations staffers shut down access to a busy bridge for political payback.

Perry has also received words of support from other potential 2016 rivals including Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush.

Perry has dismissed the case as a political ploy.

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