Chris Christie is now facing the colossal task of appointing a replacement for the seat of now deceased senator, Frank Lautenberg.
The New Jersey Governor's decision could be the determining factor in his re-election campaign, as well as a run, for president in 2016.
The ramifications of this decision transcend party lines as Christie must find just the right person to replace "one of the most reliably liberal members of the Senate," while not angering his base, forcing an even greater gap between himself and the GOP, and pushing away potential Democratic donors.
It's a delicate political quandary, but some in the media are indicating that the lawmakers with the best chance of getting chosen are: Sen. Jennifer Beck (R-Monmouth), Sen. Kevin O'Toole (R-Essex), Sen Joe Kyrillos (R-Monmouth), Former Governor Tom Kean, Sen. Tom Kean Jr. (R-Union), Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, and Assemblyman Jon Bramnnick (R-Union).
On MSNBC's "The Daily Rundown" Chuck Todd adds an additional possibility in the mix by throwing in Rep. Frank Lobiondo.
One of the greatest issues Christie faces is timing. Christie is working on his own re-election and setting up a special election in November may not only overshadow his own campaign, it may become a catalyst for Newark Mayor Cory Booker's run, who has explicitly demonstrated interest in the senate seat.
Like Christie, Booker received great reviews from constituents following the moments after Hurricane Sandy, even allowing some folks to go to his home for safety, food, and water.
"Throwing Booker and his energy into November would not be a welcome addition for Christie's race or other important state races, like those for the state's legislature," reported Business Insider.
Christie's appointment will also indicate whether he is only looking to grow with Democratic donors, or minimize political risk and commission a "placeholder," which would be Republican.
Watch the coverage on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" here:
