Paul and Christie are both seen as strong Republican 2016 contenders. | AP Photos Christie won't join Paul for rally

Gov. Chris Christie won’t be joining Sen. Rand Paul and U.S. Senate hopeful Steve Lonegan at a New Jersey rally next week, aides said, citing a scheduling conflict.

Christie has a long-scheduled trip planned with his wife Mary Pat for her 50th birthday, a campaign aide said.


Christie confirmed the news at a press conference and Tweet on Tuesday.

“In a choice between Mary Pat Christie and Rand Paul, it’s no choice for me so I’ll be with Mary Pat,” Christie said.

( PHOTOS: Chris Christie’s career)

POLITICO reported that Paul, who was already planning a fundraiser with Lonegan, is also planning to make a public appearance with him — but officials had invited Paul’s recent national security sparring partner, Christie, to attend.

Lonegan, who ran against Christie for governor in 2009, has recently praised him as very helpful to his campaign, but also sided with Paul in a dispute over Hurricane Sandy aid.

Paul and Christie are both seen as strong 2016 contenders representing different wings of the GOP.