The Chris Christie Beach Picture originated in July 2017 during a New Jersey state government shutdown that closed all public beaches to the general population. Governor Chris Christie was captured by an aerial photographer while sunbathing with his family at Island Beach State Park, a location that remained accessible only to the governor's family because it housed the official summer residence. The image quickly became a viral sensation, serving as a potent symbol of political entitlement and the 'rules for thee, but not for me' sentiment. Internet users frequently utilize the template to mock out-of-touch authority figures, hypocrisy, or anyone enjoying a private perk while others are excluded.