Romney praises Christie for storm response MORRISVILLE, Pa. -- Mitt Romney expressed gratitude Sunday night for strong leadership in areas still reeling from Monster Storm Sandy, singling out New Jersey Governor Chris Christie for "his hard work" during the recovery effort. Over the past week, the normally bombastic Christie has been grieving over the tragedy that struck his state. He has spent long hours consoling those affected by the storm while heading the relief and recovery effort -- something the Republican presidential nominee has taken note of. "He's giving it his all and his heart and his passion to help the people of his state," Romney said of Christie during a rally in neighboring Pennsylvania. They're in a hard way, and we appreciate his hard work. Christie caused a political maelstrom last week with his effusive praise of President Obama's handling of the disaster following a joint tour of the damage Wednesday. Asked about the compliments, Christie bristled at the accusation he was turning his back on his party. "I'm a Republican and I have endorsed Mitt Romney, I support him and I intend to vote for him on Tuesday," he said during an interview. If the president of United States comes here and he's willing to help my people and he does it then I'm gonna say nice things about him because he's earned it. In Morrisville, Romney went on to express empathy for those affected by the storm and encouraged the 25,000 supporters who attended to contribute in any way possible. "Our hearts go out to you," Romney said. If you have some extra funds that you can provide to people, please contact the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army or any other groups that are helping provide care for those that are having a tough time. Hurricane Sandy devastated portions of the Northeast last week, leaving millions without power. Hardest hit were the idyllic shore towns along New Jersey's coast as well as New York City, where the storm crippled the usually bustling metropolis. Romney canceled all of his planned events as the storm blew ashore, and held a storm relief event outside Dayton, Ohio last Tuesday to help the millions affected. However, his words on the storm were his first in nearly two days as the charged rhetoric of campaigning replaced words of condolence.