All-In with Chamath, Jason, Sacks & Friedberg E145: Presidential Candidate Chris Christie in conversation with the Besties
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Sep 8, 2023 
Chris Christie, former Governor of New Jersey and Republican presidential candidate, joins the discussion with insights into the pressing U.S. debt crisis and the need for entitlement reform. He provides a candid take on foreign policy, especially regarding Ukraine and Russia, while critiquing military spending practices. Christie also addresses immigration issues and the fentanyl crisis, pushing for a merit-based system. Finally, he shares his motivations for running for president and reflects on Trump's legal challenges and his own past controversies.
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Christie's Fiscal Experience
- Chris Christie, as NJ Governor, faced a $2B short-term and an $11B deficit.
- He cut 683 programs, swept surpluses, and refused to raise taxes, impacting his approval.
Ignoring Entitlement Crisis
- Politicians avoid discussing entitlement reform due to its unpopularity, despite knowing programs face insolvency.
- Christie advocates for raising the retirement age and means-testing Social Security.
Spending Cut Targets
- Cut post-COVID social spending increases and evaluate program effectiveness.
- Examine education funding and Pentagon efficiency; avoid military cuts currently.