No decision today on Bridgegate subpoena challenges

Christie's former Deputy Chief of Staff Bridget Kelly arriving this morning for her court hearing in Trenton. (Mel Evans/AP Photo)

Christie's former Deputy Chief of Staff Bridget Kelly arriving this morning for her court hearing in Trenton. (Mel Evans/AP Photo)

It’s now up to a judge to decide whether two key figures in a political payback scandal ensnaring Gov. Chris Christie’s administration will have to turn over text messages and other private communications to New Jersey lawmakers investigating the case.

The subpoenas seek documents involving the shutdown of lanes leading to the George Washington Bridge.

Lawyers for fired Christie staffer Bridget Kelly and two-time campaign manager Bill Stepien argued Tuesday that complying with the subpoenas carries the risk of self-incrimination. Lawyers for the legislative panel counter that documents released so far make it reasonable that other correspondence exists and should be turned over.

Kelly did not speak and Stepien was not in court.

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The judge will issue a ruling at a later date.

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