TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — Reaction to the news that the three former allies of Gov. Chris Christie were charged, and one pleaded guilty, over the 2013 lane closure on the George Washington Bridge poured in swiftly on Friday.

Here's a look at what key officials are saying:

GOV. CHRIS CHRISTIE:

"Today's charges make clear that what I've said from day one is true, I had no knowledge or involvement in the planning or execution of this act. The moment I first learned of this unacceptable behavior I took action, firing staff believed to be accountable, calling for an outside investigation and agreeing to fully cooperate with all appropriate investigations, which I have done. Now 15 months later it is time to let the justice system do its job," he said.

Gov. Chris Christie speaks in Tyson's Corner, Va., Friday. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen)
Gov. Chris Christie speaks in Tyson's Corner, Va., Friday. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen)
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SENATE PRESIDENT STEVE SWEENEY:

"Senate Majority Leader Weinberg, who was the first legislator to call attention to Bridgegate, and the Legislative Select Committee on Investigation deserve credit for exposing the wrongdoing, as does the U.S. Attorney for the professional manner in which he has been conducting his investigation. The legal process must now be allowed to do its job," he said.

ASSEMBLY SPEAKER VINCENT PRIETO:

"This is also a reminder of the need to reform the Port Authority, and how the governor was so wrong to reject our bipartisan legislation. That reform effort will continue," he said.

ASSEMBLYMAN JOHN WISNIEWSKI:

"Gov. Christie is unable to run a bridge, let alone take on any higher responsibility," he said.

STATE SEN. LORETTA WEINBERG:

"Somehow hearing it all in the context of the courtroom with the judge repeating each and every one of these charges and allegations — it was really sickening," she said.

PORT AUTHORITY OF NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY:

"While we are continuing our practice of not commenting on these proceedings, the Port Authority works tirelessly each day to move people and goods through the region. For more than a year, we have been rebuilding the public's trust through extensive reforms, and most importantly, a return and renewed focus on the agency's core transportation mission," the agency said in a statement.

 

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