Ann Wagner Gets Nod from Chris Christie

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie will be in the area Tuesday morning to endorse Ballwin resident Ann Wagner, a Republican candidate for Congress. She would represent Wildwood, should she win the spot.

Wagner slowly has been building a "war chest" of campaign cash in preparation for the 2012 Republican Primaries in August, when she's expected to face Ed Martin; and are seeking to represent the 2nd Congressional District—a seat presently held by Rep. Todd Akin of Wildwood, who waived any chance of re-election in favor of running for U.S. Senate.

In addition to the breakfast luncheon in Clayton, on Tuesday, Christie is scheduled to appear at campaign events this week in California and Louisiana, the Associated Press reported. Despite widespread speculation and an upswing in campaign activity, Christie said he is not planning a 2012 run for president.

Christie also was scheduled to appear at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in St. Louis on Monday for luncheon benefitting the Republican Party of New Jersey, the A.P. reported. Tickets for the event were $10,000 a plate. The Associated Press also reported that Christie was scheduled to headline the Missouri GOP's annual dinner Monday evening, which typically is the largest party fundraiser of the year.