UPDATE -- here is video:

Here is a transcript of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie's comments on Democrats pushing to redefine marriage through the legislature:

This issue that our state is exploring – whether or not to redefine hundreds of years of societal and religious traditions – should not be decided by 121 people in the State House in Trenton.

The fact is we’re discussing huge change and I believe we need to approach this not only in a thoughtful way, not in a rushed way, but also in a way where we’re able to get the most input that we can from the public.

So, if New Jersey is seriously looking to overturn hundreds of years of societal, legal and religious tradition, we need to give the issue the weight that it merits.

So, I think that this is not an issue that should rest solely in my hands, in the hands of the Senate President, or in the hands of the Speaker or the other 118 members of the Legislature.

Let’s let the people of New Jersey decide what is right for the state.

Let’s put the question of same-sex marriage on the ballot this fall, in the hands of the people, at the time where the most people will be voting, in the presidential election year.

I support giving New Jerseyans the ability to give voice to their support or their opposition to this issue.

... I would hope that the legislature would be willing to trust the people, the way I’m willing to trust the people.

This issue is too big and too consequential not to trust the people who will be governed ultimately by any change in law or maintenance of the current law.