I think there is plenty of stupidity all around for those involved in this stunt. I find it very hard to believe that they would have done this without Christie being aware and being at least somewhat okay with it.
I come from a military background where the captain takes responsibility for his ship. Many a naval career has been ruined on account of subordinates doing something stupid.
WSJ had an interesting paragraph where ALL Christie preferred appointees are purged. I personally know one who was all but leaving a firm and headed to DC, only to do an abrupt 100% about face. I mean, abrupt. Close ties to Christie. May be, DT kept Christie close, in order to be fed such a list from him, to uncover the den of snakes. After all, hw conservative and trustworthy can an R be, from NJ...