New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie announces presidential bid

LIVINGSTON, N.J. -- New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has told his most loyal supporters that he's running for president.

The Republican governor held a conference call with donors, friends and out-of-state supporters Tuesday morning before his official launch event at his old high school in Livingston, New Jersey.

Christie said, "Going back to where you were when you were 15, or 16, or 17 years old, and to be able to stand in front of that group of people and offer yourself to the presidency is a really, really amazing moment."

He also asked supporters to have confidence in him and work hard on his behalf.

The Republican governor faces a difficult road to the GOP nomination in a crowded field that now numbers 14 major candidates, with two more expected to join next month.