Dear Editor,

As a result of the abysmal sales data, where it has been confirmed that only 2,289 copies of the book “Republic Rescue” by former New Jersey governor and omnipresent Republican conservative firebrand Chris Christie have been purchased upon release to date in which the former governor shares his strategies to “save the party (Republican) from truth deniers and conspiracy theorists,” it appears to have been summarily rejected by the American populace, in particular his Republican/conservative constituents.

Although the aforementioned publication was obviously intended to essentially encourage Republicans to return to “party normalcy” and their conservative roots, and away from its being undoubtedly a personality-driven cult, where facts are ignored and personal attacks on political opponents take priority over what strategically is best for our great country.

Essentially, the once proud, and productive, Republican Party has degenerated, unfortunately, into the “Trump Personality cult,” where cutthroat politics of the worst order has, sadly, become their top priority and trademark.

Governor Christie has long been a well-known and respected national figure, is probably best known for his serving for two terms as the governor of New Jersey, from Jan. 19, 2010 until Jan. 16, 2018, including his unsuccessful run for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination, in which then-candidate Donald J. Trump emerged victorious.

It has been reported that Governor Christie was strongly considered by President Trump to serve in his administration, possibly as secretary of Homeland Security, secretary of Veterans Affairs, as well as White House Chief of Staff. All of which he declined.

However, further evidence of the respect President Trump has for Governor Christie was that the then president employed Mr. Christy to help prepare him for the 2020 presidential debate against then Democratic nominee, Joe Biden.

Conversely, Governor Christie tested positive for COVID-19 (following a known “super spreader” event at the White House).

In addition, it was reported that President Trump contacted Governor Christie during his hospitalization.

(Christie has told reporters the purpose of the call was to see if Christie would publicly blame Trump for his illness). Which typically exemplified an incredible lack of sensitivity and concern, but, unfortunately, a typical Trumpian observation.

For years, Gov. Christie has been somewhat of a less-theatrical version of Donald Trump. However, it now has become quite evident that in order to maintain credibility within the Republican hierarchy, one must be totally subservient to the “Trump Cult,” where demagoguery, sadly, takes priority over all else.

Richard Hord

Martins Ferry