Christie's support: 'coup for Romney'

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's decision to endorse GOP presidential frontrunner Mitt Romney is "a coup for Romney that could help him solidify his frontrunner status and build an aura of inevitability around his campaign," National Journal reports.

The endorsement, first reported by Fox News, will benefit Romney on several fronts. The Washington Post, for example, hones in on the financial ramifications.

"Christie's financial supporters had been waiting for him to decide before backing a different candidate. The New Jersey governor's endorsement will send much of that cash to Romney. Romney also stands to benefit from the budget-cutting Christie's ties to the tea party, a group of voters that Romney has struggled to win over."

Christie now figures to be a powerful campaigner for Team Romney, the New York Times notes.

"The Christie endorsement could also offer a significant boost to Mr. Romney among conservative populists and others who are some of the New Jersey governor's biggest supporters. … His backing was seen as one of the most coveted endorsements, given his popularity and ability to serve as a surrogate across the country."

The timing of the endorsement is no mistake, Politico reports, as it augments Romney's momentum heading into Tuesday night's Republican debate.

"It gives Romney a major boost heading into the latest debate in New Hampshire tonight, and is a serious 'get' as he tries to consolidate support amid Rick Perry's fade."

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