Superstorm Sandy: Barack Obama and Chris Christie's unlikely relationship But, just days ahead of the Nov 6 election, the disaster has turned the two men into a bipartisan double act, each making a public show of setting aside political differences, and praising the other's efforts. After they visited a shelter together Mr Obama was heard addressing the Governor as "Chris." He then told reporters that Mr Christie was showing "extraordinary leadership," and had "put his heart and soul" into the rescue effort. Mr Christie described his working relationship with the president as "incredibly close" and said Mr Obama had "sprung into action immediately," designating New Jersey a "major disaster" area to expedite assistance. Mr Christie added: "I cannot thank the president enough for his personal concern and compassion for our state. The president has been all over this, and he deserves great credit. Asked in a television interview whether Mr Romney would also be visiting New Jersey, Mr Christie said bluntly: "I have no idea, nor am I the least bit concerned or interested. I have got a job to do here in New Jersey that is much bigger than presidential politics. If you think right now I give a damn about presidential politics, then you don't know me.