Advisory Opinions Hookers and Kushners | Interview: Chris Christie
Aug 14, 2025
Chris Christie, the former New Jersey Governor and U.S. Attorney, shares invaluable insights for young attorneys and those in legal fields. He recounts captivating behind-the-scenes stories from the 2016 presidential debates and offers reflections on his political career, including navigating complex cases like the Kushner family dispute. Christie also humorously discusses the dynamics of mentorship and the importance of preparation in law. The conversations blend personal anecdotes with poignant reflections, making for a delightful and informative listen.
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Post‑9/11 Missile Sting
- Chris Christie described prosecuting a post-9/11 terrorism sting involving attempted sale of shoulder-fired missiles to hit Newark flights.
- The defendant, Hamet Lakhani, took delivery and later died serving a life sentence in federal prison.
How The Kushner Sting Unraveled
- Christie told the full Charles Kushner story: family dispute, videotaped prostitute sting, and multi-count guilty plea.
- The scheme used cutouts and subpoenas to trace calls from the prostitute to a private investigator to a cop, leading to convictions.
How Priorities Fit Existing Work
- A U.S. Attorney balances continuity by using added AUSA slots to staff new presidential priorities without derailing existing work.
- AG Ashcroft told Christie he'd have discretion so long as prosecutions complied with law and pursued justice.