The Huntsman campaign was quick to declare victory, or at least success, in tonight’s debate. They sent out this email:
He detailed specific and comprehensive solutions to revive our flailing economy – a plan described last week as “easily the most pro-growth proposal ever offered” by a presidential candidate. Among the GOP field, Governor Huntsman’s plan is unique in that it’s built on the author’s proven record of success.
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Tonight, Governor Huntsman contrasted his record in Utah — historic tax reform, free-market healthcare reform, and number one in job creation — with those of his opponents.
I must not have been watching the same debate. What I saw was someone nearly as condescending as President Obama, only without the charm. I was completely put off by his totally gratuitous brag about his ability to speak fluent Mandarin. (Yes, it’s an asset, but how vulgar to brag on national TV.)
Instead of challenging others’ characterization of himself as a moderate, Huntsman has essentially embraced the characterization. For this and other reasons, he has failed to make himself a palatable veep choice for any of the other candidates.
