Scandal-plagued Christie sworn in for second term as N.J. governor

TRENTON, N.J., Jan. 21 (UPI) -- New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, his administration buffeted by scandal, was sworn in for a second term Tuesday,

In his inaugural address in Trenton, Christie praised his state's coming together to face the challenges of economic recession and Hurricane Sandy, CNN reported.

In excerpts released before his address, Christie said New Jersey residents have the same dreams: "A good job, a great education for our children, safe streets in our neighborhood and core values which give our lives real meaning."

The wintry weather bearing down on the East Coast forced an inaugural gala on Ellis Island to be canceled.

A prayer service kicked off the day's inauguration festivities. School children and politicians, preachers and law enforcement officials filled the pews of the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark in a reprise of Christie's first inauguration that began with a prayer service in his hometown, the (Newark) Star-Ledger reported.

The congregation applauded as the families of Christie and Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno entered the sanctuary, the Star-Ledger said.

The Christie administration is accused of instigating lane closures on the busy George Washington Bridge because the Democratic mayor of Fort Lee didn't endorse him in his re-election bid and of possibly misusing federal funds earmarked for Hurricane Sandy relief. Christie's office also is accused of holding back hurricane relief funds for hard-hit cities.

The interdenominational prayer was led by pastor Joe A. Carter, joined by the Rev. Joe Anginoli of St. Joseph Church in Mendham and Rabbi David Kirshner of Temple Emanu-El in Closter.