New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie earned a reputation as a no-nonsense, law-and-order leader. Then came “Bridgegate.”

It started three years ago this month when two of the three approach lanes to the George Washington Bridge were shut down as part of what prosecutors say was a political payback scheme orchestrated by Christie allies.

The trial for a former top aide and appointee to the agency that operates the bridge has begun with jury selection this week. Christie has denied any wrongdoing and has not been charged.

Christie is a former federal prosecutor and Republican governor in Democratic-leaning New Jersey. He was popular with late-night TV hosts and topped national polls as a prospective 2016 presidential candidate.

But his approval ratings at home are at record lows after a failed presidential campaign, and his political future is uncertain.

(AP)