New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who’s expected to make a Republican bid for the White House in 2016, was in the St. Louis area Monday evening to raise money for the Republican National Committee.

The private event, closed to the press, was hosted by Jeff Fox in Clayton, sources say. He’s the son of wealthy businessman Sam Fox, who also lives in Clayton and long has been one of the top Republican donors nationally and in Missouri.

Monday night’s fundraiser is among several that Christie is attending in the bi-state area over the next two days.

On Tuesday, he is to headline events in Chicago on behalf of the GOP candidate for governor, Bruce Rauner.

Christie’s stop in St. Louis also may be aimed at re-acquainting himself with local Republican leaders and donors. They could play a crucial role in helping to bankroll any presidential bid.

Christie's last major stop in the St. Louis region was three years ago this month, when he raised $500,000 for the Republican National Committee at an event at Hunter Farms, the estate of former Ambassador Stephen Brauer and wife Kimmy Brauer.

Christie also headlined an event in September 2012 in Springfield, Mo., for then-GOP gubernatorial nominee Dave Spence.

Parade of potential GOP presidential contenders

Christie is among several top Republicans who have, or soon will be, stopping by St. Louis.

Last Friday, retiring U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn. – and a GOP contender in 2012 – appeared at a conference in Frontenac held by Eagle Forum, a conservative group headed by Phyllis Schlafly. Bachmann has not said what her political plans are in 2016.

And on Oct. 9, Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., is to be in town to help raise money for the conservative Show Me Institute. Paul also is believed to be testing the waters for a possible 2016 run for the White House.