Gov. Christie Campaigns In The Caldwells Thursday

Gov. Chris Christie made a stop in the Caldwells Thursday morning as his campaign heads into the final two weeks before election day. 

Christie spoke in front of more than 50 people gathered at the Caldwell Fire House around 11 a.m. The Republican governor was accompanied by local officials — Caldwell Mayor Ann Dassing and West Caldwell Mayor Joseph Tempesta Jr. — as well as Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo Jr. and Essex County Sheriff Armando B. Fontoura, among other officials. 

Lisa Smith, local business owner of Smith & Co. on Bloomfield Avenue, said the governor spoke about the gridlock in Washington, D.C., and the need for compromise. 

"He was in a good mood and told a lot of funny stories," said Smith. 

She also spoke to Christie and told him what it is like owning a small business in the state. 

"I went up … and told him how good my small business is doing and I think a lot of it has to do with how he is governing the state," said Smith. "All you can say is that he's just a regular guy."

With 12 days days before the election on Nov. 5, Christie is 26 points ahead of his Democratic challenger Sen. Barbara Buono, according to NJ.com. 

Did you attend the campaign rally on Thursday? Share what you thought about the event and your photos by contacting the editor at mike.donofrio@patch.com, or leave a comment below.