Huntsman Receives Key Endorsements

Holding a press conference at the site of one of former governor Carroll Campbell’s signature projects, Republican presidential candidate Jon Huntsman received the endorsement of several of Campbell’s family members at The International Center for Automotive Research in Greenville today.

Huntsman also received the endorsement of Bob McAlister, a longtime advisor to Campbell. McAlister was joined at the event by Carroll Campbell III, former first lady of South Carolina, Iris Campbell and by Mike Campbell, the first member of the family to publicly declare his support for Huntsman.

They all pointed to Huntsman’s success in creating economic growth while governor of Utah, a skill they believe is in great demand as the economy continues to sputter both locally and nationally.

McAlister also indicated he will be joining Huntsman's team in an official capcity as a consultant.

The endorsements today, as well as that of former attorney general Henry McMaster signal a commitment by the Huntsman campaign to compete strongly in the state. Such establishment figures may be helpful in generating support among voters who may not be familiar with Huntsman.

The endorsements may also help as questions about Huntsman's conservative credentials rise, specifically regarding his time as Ambassador to China in the Obama Administration and his positions on the environment and gay marriage.

Huntsman brushed off the suggestion that evangelical Christians who might shy away from him since he is a Mormon, saying that voters are more interested in the economy.

He did not back off his criticism of front-runner Mitt Romney, noting Massachusetts’ rank in the national economy. “47^th is 47.” Huntsman said.

Huntsman’s surrogates took to Twitter and other political news sites to further distinguish their candidate from Romney. From Twitter:

@RealityRoom - Mitt Romney Did Not Lead a “Dramatic” Turnaround of His State’s Economy http://jon2012.us/mXsGuj

It is a further indication of Huntsman’s willingness to take on Romney while maintaining the civil tone to which he aspired in his announcement declaring his candidacy for President in June.

“I don't think you need to run down anyone's reputation to run for President. Of course we'll have our disagreements. I respect my fellow Republican candidates.”