Gov. Chris Christie's state of the state address

NEW JERSEY (FOX 5 NY) - New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie started his state of the state address poking fun at himself and critics who complain the republican presidential candidate has spent too much time campaigning out of state.

The GOP hopeful took this opportunity to take a jab at President Obama who was set to give the State of the Union Tuesday night.

Christie touted his accomplishments saying during his leadership private sector jobs grew, unemployment fell and home sales are up. The governor vowed to increase his commitment to drug treatment programs. This is an issue that is also very important to all important New Hampshire primary voters.

New Jersey has the most underfunded pension system in the country. The governor vowed to put money into it, but not as much as some democrats would like. Christie says to give into the democrats would mean increased sales tax or state income tax.

Political analyst David Birdsell said the governor gives this address at time when he is fighting low approval ratings at home as well as struggling to make his mark on the national stage.

Christie tried to send a message to lawmakers that even though he is running for president he is still very much focused on policies in New Jersey.