Chris Christie Says Black Lives Matter Movement Shouldn't Be Justified: 'They're Chanting in the Streets for the Murder of Police Officers

Republican presidential contender Chris Christie said he does not believe the Black Lives Matter movement is one that should be justified as their members "call for the murder of police officers."

Appearing on CBS' "Face the Nation" Sunday, the New Jersey governor blasted President Barack Obama for "justifying" the Black Lives Matter movement and embracing a rhetoric that encourages lawlessness in the U.S. — including allowing for sanctuary cities. Christie criticized the president for not "backing up" law enforcement officials in the country which he said is evident through his support of Black Lives Matter.

"Listen, I don't believe that that movement should be justified at all when they're calling for the murder of police officers, no," Christie said.

Image source: CBS News

After being pressed by "Face the Nation" host John Dickerson on that claim, Christie stood his ground.

"Sure they are. They're chanting in the streets for the murder of police officers," Christie said. "That's what the movement is creating and the president of the United States is justifying that. And not only that, he hasn't backed up police officers from the minute he's gotten into office. We can cite instance after instance."

Christie said if he were to be elected president, he would do a better job of "backing up police officers" as he previously served in law enforcement.