Thomson ReutersChris Christie stepped onto the ABC News stage in New Hampshire with only one goal: Hit Sen. Marco Rubio early and often. The New Jersey governor did just that on Saturday, remaining on message from beginning to end. His performance is unlikely to be enough to change his fate when Granite State Republicans head to the polls on Tuesday, but on this night at least he did the most to help himself of anyone on the national stage. Christie set the tone early during his first clash with Rubio, who appeared uncharacteristically flustered during what was his weakest debate performance at a time when he needed his strongest.