TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey lawmakers are forming a special committee to investigate the role that politics played in the closing of lanes leading to one of the world's busiest bridges, which caused massive traffic jams.

The Assembly committee will have subpoena power and a special counsel appointed to it.

The probe has already revealed that high-ranking officials in Gov. Chris Christie's administration were involved in ordering the closures. The scandal threatens to undermine Christie's second term and his chances at a presidential run in 2016.

Christie has apologized but denied involvement. He has fired a top aide and cut ties with a campaign adviser. A key lawmaker said last week that both could receive subpoenas soon.

Christie is scheduled to deliver his State of the State address on Tuesday.

More From AM 1050 KSIS