Christie says scandal ‘tested administration’

TRENTON, N.J. – Faced with a widening political scandal that threatens to undermine his second term and a possible 2016 presidential run, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie apologized again Tuesday, saying his administration “let down the people we are entrusted to serve” but that the issue doesn’t define his team or the state.

On the eve of his second term, the governor opened his annual State of the State address by touching only briefly on the apparent political payback plot.

“The last week has certainly tested this administration,” he said. “Mistakes were clearly made. And as a result, we let down the people we are entrusted to serve. I know our citizens deserve better.”

He received tempered applause after he went on, saying, “This administration and this Legislature will not allow the work that needs to be done to improve the people’s lives in Jersey to be delayed.”

China actions upsetting neighbors, experts warn

WASHINGTON – The United States must not tolerate China’s use of military coercion in pursuit of its territorial claims in the seas of East Asia, lawmakers said at a hearing Tuesday. Experts warned that Beijing’s assertiveness is unnerving its neighbors and challenges American security interests.

Separately, the Philippine envoy to Washington complained about China’s “aggression” and urged Vietnam to follow the Philippines in mounting an international legal challenge to Beijing’s expansive claims.

China’s recent declaration of an air-defense zone over disputed islands controlled by Japan in the East China Sea, and its new rules to regulate fishing in a huge tranche of the South China Sea, have deepened concerns that its rise as a regional power could spark a confrontation.

House lawmakers overseeing U.S. policy toward Asia and America’s use of sea-power held a joint hearing to consider Washington’s response.

Associated Press