GOP Leader: Suspend NJ Traffic Jam Probe

The top Republican in the Assembly says the Legislature's investigation into politically motivated traffic jams at the George Washington Bridge should be suspended.

Minority Leader Jon Bramnick says the bipartisan panel should suspend hearings until the U.S. Attorney concludes his criminal investigation.

Federal authorities and the legislative panel are trying to determine who ordered approach lanes to the bridge shut last September. That caused gridlock in Fort Lee, the town at the base of the busy span linking New Jersey and New York.

The plot was hatched by loyalists to Gov. Chris Christie to retaliate against Fort Lee's mayor, a Democrat who didn't endorse the Republican governor.

Assemblywoman Amy Handlin, a Republican on the panel, says the focus should be on reforming the bridge agency.

The Democratic co-chairs have emphasized the importance of continuing the investigation.

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