In a twist no one saw coming, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie is set to teach a class at Yale University this semester on, wait for it, how to run a political campaign. Christie was at the bottom of the barrel in his last two presidential political campaigns and left office as one of New Jersey’s least favorable governors.
Yes, you read that right. The same guy who went from Trump’s BFF to his most vocal critic is now sharing his wisdom with eager Ivy Leaguers.
Christie’s class, “How to Run a Political Campaign,” isn’t just about shaking hands and kissing babies. According to the course description, students will dive into the nitty-gritty of campaign life—communications, fundraising, and, perhaps the most ironic part, deciding what kind of leader you actually want to be if you win.
“Leaders in our political system have abandoned the truth because it’s hard,” Christie said. “It’s what we’re seeing on both sides of the aisle and, to me, that’s not what leadership is supposed to be about.”
While Christie’s tenure as New Jersey’s governor was a mixed bag—bridge scandals and all—his insight into the rough-and-tumble world of politics might just be the kind of real talk future politicians need. He’s been through the ringer, from presidential campaigns to navigating the murky waters of party loyalty. And now, he’s ready to dish out all the lessons learned.
The question is, will these Ivy League students take his advice to heart or see it as a cautionary tale? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be an interesting semester at Yale.
