Federal records show that the reduction, which represents a huge gift to ExxonMobil, follows a wave of campaign cash from the company to the Christie-run Republican Governors Association. 

Since Christie's first run for governor in 2009, ExxonMobil has donated more than $1.9 million to the group, according to data compiled by PoliticalMoneyLine.com. That includes $79,000 during Christie’s 2009 campaign and $200,000 during his re-election campaign in 2013. It also includes $500,000 when he chaired the organization during the 2014 election cycle. 

ExxonMobil was one of the top contributors to the RGA during that election cycle, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.

According to New Jersey state documents, ExxonMobil has employed the firm Public Strategies Impact as a lobbyist in Trenton.  http://www.ibtimes.com/chris-christie-settles-exxonmobil-case-after-oil-giant-gave-rga-big-cash-1830752