The speculation has been around for weeks now. Will our ambassador to China resign and run for the GOP nomination? Monday the first step was taken. Jon Huntsman sent his resignation letter to the president with an April date as its effective date.
At the State Dinner welcoming Chinese leader Hu Jintao to the White House two weeks ago, President Obama joked about a possible Huntsman candidacy. “I couldn’t be happier with the ambassador’s service, and I’m sure he will be very successful in whatever endeavors he chooses in the future,” he said, smiling. “And I’m sure that him having worked so well with me will be a great asset in any Republican primary.”
And this:
If Huntsman won the GOP nomination, he would be challenging the reelection of his former boss. White House officials are furious at what they consider an audacious betrayal, but know that any public criticism would be likely to benefit Huntsman if he enters the primaries.
Huntsman boasts the most foreign policy experience of any of the likely GOP candidates, and would be a formidable entry to the unformed GOP field. He had a fiscally conservative record as governor, opposes abortion and is a strong supporter of gun owners’ rights.
See, Team Obama thought they were so clever with the Huntsman ambassadorship to China. It got him out of the country and out of sight. Problem is, it backfired. Huntsman has recent foreign policy experience under his belt now and he is an attractive candidate with a serious resume. We know foreign policy is not the strong suit of Barack Obama.
The fact that Team Obama feels betrayed shows that the original intent to deal with Huntsman was cynical at best. How appropriate that he may turn the table on them and run for the Republican nomination.
Wouldn't that be an interesting race?
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