N.J. Gov. Christie defends pace of disbursements in Superstorm Sandy relief charity run by wife

3/11/2013

NORTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. -- New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is defending the delay in disbursing $32 million in donations from a Superstorm Sandy relief fund headed by his wife.

The Republican governor says the charity being run by Mary Pat Christie was never meant to provide immediate relief to those recovering from the mega-storm, which hit the state last October.

The Asbury Park Press reported Sunday none of the relief money that came pouring in after Sandy has reached victims.

Mary Pat Christie told the newspaper she's being methodical to ensure the money is spent properly. She says the fund was meant to help refinance rebuilding efforts, not provide short-term relief.

The governor reiterated that claim Monday after a visit to a site for developmentally disabled residents.