2012 was the hottest year in the nation’s history! And while that’s not a surprise to anyone who set foot outside in the last 365 days (excluding that loveable shut-in, John Caldwell), there were several other tip-offs that you might have missed.

Republican New Jersey Governor Chris Christie recently said this about President Obama: “He’s like a man wandering around a dark room…clutching for the light switch of leadership, and he just can’t find it.” Yesterday, after Obama rushed to New Jersey's aid in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, Christie said: “It’s been very good working with the president…It’s been wonderful.” Faster than it took to flood lower Manhattan, the Gov and Prez were suddenly BFFs and seen hugging each other repeatedly on national television. Who knows where this relationship is going?

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie will be giving the keynote speech at the Republican National Convention today — provided Hurricane Isaac doesn’t destroy the state first. (No worries — Rep. Todd Akin insists that a state can “shut things down” in the event of a “legitimate storm.”) Christie is considered a charismatic and entertaining speaker, so it’s hoped that he’ll energize and unite the party before Romney officially gets the nomination. Two things we know for sure: it’s a huge honor for Christie and Sarah Palin is pissed.