Christie allows N.J. governor to temporarily fill seat vacated by late Governor Frank Lautenberg . Question is timing for a special election this year or a vote in November 2016 . Governor up for re - election this year , considered possible 2016 presidential contender . Christie 's criticism in January of House Republicans ' slow -- but eventual -- Christie surprised conservatives with praise for the following 2012 hurricane .
Christie allows N.J. governor to temporarily fill seat vacated by late Governor Frank Lautenberg . Question is timing for a special election this year or a vote in November 2016 . Governor up for re - election this year , considered possible 2016 presidential contender . Christie surprised conservatives with praise for the following 2012 hurricane .