Governor Chris Christie Joins White House Race

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has announced he is seeking the Republican nomination for the US presidency in 2016.

The blunt 52-year-old politician claimed both parties "have failed our country" and it was time to "tell each other the truth about the problems we have".

Speaking in a gym in his former high school, he promised to "tell it like it is".

He told the crowd: "I am now ready to fight for the people of the United States.

"Today I am proud to announce my candidacy for the Republican nomination for president of the United States of America."

He said to supporters that he was ready to begin what he called a noble effort to "lead our country and to change the world".

He joins a crowded Republican field that includes 13 other candidates.

Mr Christie was once thought to be a leading contender for the White House.

But his approval ratings have been hit over the last year by a traffic jam scandal and a lagging economy in a state which is largely Democratic.

He has slipped from favour with fellow party members and faces a tough sell with many conservatives.

Mr Christie often emphasises his working-class roots as a contrast to candidates like Jeb Bush, the son and brother of presidents.

He used his announcement in his old school gym to show how his upbringing shaped him in articulating his vision for the country.