It’s a combination that’s led to 40 percent of Republicans, 41 percent of independents and 43 percent of Democrats seeing him in a positive light.

Click here to read the entire NBC/WSJ poll (.pdf)

Christie’s crossover appeal has some precedence. Arizona Sen. John McCain once enjoyed broad support, particularly among independents during and after his 2000 presidential bid, as did former Secretary of State Colin Powell when he was considered a potential presidential candidate in 1996 and beyond. But it’s still unique to see an active politician receiving high marks among all the entire political spectrum…

Among all respondents, Christie’s favorable/unfavorable rating lands at 41 percent favorable vs. 12 percent unfavorable. That’s compared to Obama’s 47 percent favorable/40 percent unfavorable rating and Clinton’s 49 percent favorable/31 percent unfavorable score.