Chris Christie, prosecutor appear at same event

JERSEY CITY, N.J. (AP) — It could have been an awkward moment for New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.

The governor was a speaker Thursday at a conference also attended by the federal prosecutor who is investigating the traffic jam scandal that has ensnared Christie's administration.

But U.S. Attorney Paul Fishman left the conference before the governor arrived.

A federal grand jury is investigating the politically orchestrated plot to create huge traffic jams in September at the George Washington Bridge.

One of the governor's top aides and other associates were caught up in the scandal. But Christie, who is considering a 2016 run for president, has denied knowing about the scheme.

Speaking separately, Christie and Fishman agreed on the need for more programs to help convicts re-enter society after leaving prison, the topic of the conference.