Update, 2:30 p.m.:

Gov. Chris Christie is expected to be released from the hospital "early this evening." Everything appeared normal after the governor was given a chest X-ray and EKG.

Update, 1:00 p.m.:

Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno has not been called on to take over acting governor duties

SOMERVILLE — Gov. Chris Christie was hospitalized this morning after he complained of having trouble breathing, according to the governor's office.

A spokesman, Michael Drewniak, said Christie suffers from asthma, and was taken to Somerset Medical Center in Somerville "out of an abundance of caution."

Drewniak said the governor was "doing fine" and undergoing tests.

At town hall events, Christie often tells audiences that he has asthma. When explaining the difference between the federal government's health care plans and New Jersey's, he describes going to his local pharmacist to refill his inhaler prescription.



• Medical center treating Gov. Christie has 110-year history that is proud and not so proud

• Gov. Christie's hospitalization prompts varied reactions from Twitter

• Gov. Chris Christie is the latest of several New Jersey governors to wind up in the hospital

• Gov. Christie is not alone: Asthma affects millions nationwide