SOMERSET – Gov. Chris Christie says his longtime friend and advisor’s decision to leave his job at Community Education Centers should not be considered a political strategy decision.

The governor dismissed the idea that Bill Palatucci’s decision to leave CEC is yet another indication of Christie’s plan to run for re-election next year. Palatucci, a key advisor and fundraiser, told friends in an email that he is “exploring new opportunities” and would be stepping down from his position at CEC.

“Bill told me he’s leaving his job and I look to what he’s going to next,” Christie said Thursday during a news conference at the Somerset National Guard Armory.

“He doesn’t work for me,” said Christie, adding “I wouldn’t read anything into that” in terms of political strategy.