New Jersey governor claims visit to Israel unrelated to rumors about him running for US president in 2016; says ´I did not expect to meet Americans from Tennessee, Minnesota, California, and New Jersey´

As New Jersey governor Chris Christie made his way to the Western Wall during an intensive visit to Jerusalem on Monday, he was greeted by an excited group of American tourists and expats who recognized the potential 2012 vice presidential candidate.

When asked what he felt about the warm reception, the governor responded “it’s a little disorienting. I just got here 9 am this morning and did not expect to meet Americans from Tennessee, Minnesota, California, and New Jersey.”

Chants of “2016” could be heard among the crowd, referring to the governor’s potential bid for the next presidential election in four years time.

However, Christie made clear that his visit to Israel had little to do with rumors about him running for US president in 2016. “I’ve come here because this is a momentous and significant place. I’ve always wanted to visit Israel but I’ve never had the opportunity until now.”

Governor Christie also mentioned how special it was for him to be at the Mount of Olives with his 11-year old son: “To be so close to the spot where the Biblical story of Abraham and the binding of Issac took place, and my son by my side was truly a moving moment.”

The Western Wall, a remnant of an ancient wall that surrounded the Second Temple from about 2,000 years ago, is one of Judaism’s most sacred sites. (Copyright 2012 © Yedioth Internet 04/04/12)