Legislative Lawyers: Kelly’s Subpoena Valid

Lawyers for a New Jersey legislative panel investigating a political payback scandal say a former aide to Gov. Chris Christie has shown no valid legal purpose for refusing to comply with a subpoena.

Governor Chris Christie (L) tours the Seaside Heights boardwalk fire area with Deputy Chief of Staff Bridget Anne Kelly (R) (Tim Larsen/Office of the Governor Of N.J. via Getty Images)

Monday's response was to a court filing on behalf of former Deputy Chief of Staff Bridget Kelly, who is seeking to quash the subpoena.

The legislators want Kelly to turn over emails, text messages and other documents that involve a plot to block traffic near the George Washington Bridge for political retribution against a Democratic mayor whose town experienced the gridlock.

Documents already released indicate Kelly set the lane closings in motion with a message: "Time for some traffic problems in Fort Lee."

Two-time Christie campaign manager Bill Stepien is also fighting to have his subpoena withdrawn.

Oral arguments are set for Tuesday.