In one of those GOP targeted districts, rising star Assemblyman Troy Singleton (D-7) anticipates a tough fight with Gov. Chris Christie at the top of the opposing ticket.

“I’d be lying if I said I don’t think about it,” Singleton said of Christie Hurricane Sandy replay in political terms, with the Republican governor seeping into Democratic territory. “Students of New Jersey political history hearken back to Tom Kean’s win over Peter Shapiro. I know what strong coattails mean.

“But,” Singleton added, “I really do think voters will be focused on who represents their interests locally. Most elections we will see will be decided district by district.”

Two years now in the Legislature, Singleton said it’s possible popular Republican Gov. Chris Christie could stumble before the 2013 general.

“I’m very comfortable with Senator Buono,” the assemblyman said of the Democrats’ lone declared gubernatorial challenger. “She has passion and experience. Several other individuals whose names have been bandied around out there would also be good. The one thing I was taught is that a day is a lifetime in politics. But I have no problem walking arm in arm with Senator Barbara Buono.”

Still, Singleton reiterated his belief that his contest will come down to hand to hand districtwide political combat, “not what’s going on at 50,000 feet.”

“I don’t have to run against Chris Christie,” Singleton said. “My job is to present the stuff I’ve done. The laborers will make decisions on the governor’s race but they will also be actively engaged on my behalf in the district race. Voters will look at us and a determination will be made.”