By Annie Ross
Every time New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie dips his toe into the world of sports he makes a fool of himself.
Earlier this week he announced that he “hated” the Eagles’ fight song, “Fly Eagles Fly,” a gratuitous comment, especially one coming from the chief executive of a state that plays it games in the Meadowlands.
Who happens to also be a Dallas Cowboys fan, as his photo above Cowboys owner Jerry Jones attests.
Then, yesterday, he entered the world of Alice in Wonderland yet again by signing a meaningless piece of legislation that would “authorize” sports betting to save Atlantic City’s train wreck of an econony even though the federal courts have told me no.
“As I’ve said all along, I am a strong proponent of legalized sports wagering in New Jersey,” Christie said in a statement. “But given earlier decisions by federal courts, it was critical that we follow a correct and appropriate path to curtail new court challenges and expensive litigation. I believe we have found that path in this bipartisan legislative effort.”
Pro leagues and the NCAA have gone to court to prevent New Jersey’s racetracks and casinos from taking sports bets.
The leagues and the state attorney general are awaiting a Nov. 21 court date in U.S. District Court. The attorney general sought a clarification of a sports betting injunction. Christie said he believes the bill signed Friday adheres to federal law and responds to the issues raised in federal courts.
Dennis Drazin, an adviser to Monmouth Park Racetrack, said the park plans to begin taking sports bets on Oct. 26 but expects the leagues to seek a further court injunction.
