Chris Christie is defending President Donald Trump's push to combat opioid abuse, saying the president "gave compassion yesterday and hope" to families struggling with the epidemic. Critics say Trump's declaration of opioid abuse a national public health emergency doesn't go far enough. ———4:15 a.m.President Donald Trump is calling for Americans to liberate their communities from the scourge of drug addiction as he declares opioid abuse a national public health emergency. Administration officials say they will urge Congress, during end-of-the year budget negotiations, to add new cash to a public health emergency fund. Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut says Trump's effort falls far short of what's needed and will divert staff and resources from other public health initiatives.

Source: ABC News October 27, 2017 12:14 UTC