TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says he's willing to have a conversation about stricter gun laws, but says policymakers also must address the mental health system, improve access to drug treatment and look at the impact of violent video games.
Christie made the comments on NBC's "Today" show, one of five national television appearances he was making Wednesday morning, one day after his annual State of the State address.
Christie was asked about specific gun control measures, and instead talked about violent video games. "We don't allow those games into our house...we think it desensitizes children to all the effects of violence," and added that all of the issues related to gun violence needed to be dealt with.
When pressed on why he couldn't answer whether he supports a ban on assault weapons, he said that it depends. "These are complicated issues," he said. "I'm willing to have that conversation."
The Republican is also on the cover of Time magazine.
On "Today," Christie was asked about his 1995 call for a ban on assault weapons in New Jersey. He says it should be up to states to decide.
Christie also says that losing the last two presidential elections shows Republicans "need to be thinking about doing something different."
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