Meaning: The quote by Chris Christie, a former Governor of New Jersey, addresses his experience as the U.S. Attorney for New Jersey in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. In this quote, Christie acknowledges the profound impact of the 9/11 attacks on the families who lost loved ones and the broader American society. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing the pain, sorrow, and concerns of the families who were directly affected by the tragic events of that day.

Chris Christie's reference to his role as the first U.S. Attorney post 9/11 in New Jersey is significant in understanding the context of his statement. Following the 9/11 attacks, the United States experienced a heightened sense of vulnerability and a deep emotional impact from the loss of thousands of lives. As the U.S. Attorney, Christie was responsible for overseeing federal law enforcement efforts in New Jersey during a critical period in the nation's history, which likely exposed him to the raw emotions and deep trauma experienced by the families of the victims.

Christie's acknowledgment of the pain and upset experienced by the families of the 9/11 victims reflects his recognition of the ongoing impact of the attacks. The trauma and grief experienced by those who lost loved ones in the attacks continue to reverberate through American society, shaping the collective memory and attitudes toward issues related to national security, terrorism, and the protection of civil liberties.

Furthermore, Christie's reference to "radical Muslim extremists" in the quote reflects a specific framing of the perpetrators of the 9/11 attacks. This language is significant in the context of post-9/11 discourse and policies, as it underscores the identification of the attackers as belonging to a particular ideological and religious group. This framing has had far-reaching consequences in shaping public perceptions, government policies, and international relations in the years following the attacks.

In acknowledging the sensitivities and concerns of the families who lost loved ones on 9/11, Christie highlights the need for empathy and understanding in addressing the aftermath of a national tragedy. His statement underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting the experiences and perspectives of those directly impacted by acts of terrorism, even as broader political and security considerations are taken into account.

Overall, Chris Christie's quote captures the complex and deeply emotional aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, as well as the ongoing challenges in balancing the imperative of national security with the need to address the human dimension of tragic events. His words reflect a recognition of the enduring impact of the attacks on the lives of individuals and communities, as well as the imperative of acknowledging and responding to the multifaceted consequences of terrorism on a personal and societal level.