Drewniak: Gov Christie was unaware of traffic scheme

 Michael Drewniak, chief spokesman for Gov. Chris Christie, is sworn in Tuesday, May 13, 2014, before the state legislature's Select Committee on Investigation in Trenton.  (AP Photo/Mel Evans)

Michael Drewniak, chief spokesman for Gov. Chris Christie, is sworn in Tuesday, May 13, 2014, before the state legislature's Select Committee on Investigation in Trenton. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s longtime press secretary says he’s confident his boss of 14 years had no knowledge of or involvement in the scheme that shut traffic near the George Washington Bridge in a political payback plot.

The spokesman, Michael Drewniak, called the plot reckless and perplexing in an opening statement Tuesday before a New Jersey legislative committee that’s investigating last September’s lane closings.

“It was just so bizarre. It made no sense and had no value. So I don’t know who to believe and why they would do such a thing, he said. “

The scheme carried out last fall by Christie loyalists has become a major distraction as the Republican contemplates a 2016 presidential run. Christie has denied knowing about the plot.

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Drewniak has also testified before a federal grand jury that’s separately investigating the lane closings.

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Phil Gregory contributed to this report

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