A Huntsman Factor?

I'll admit that I was a little surprised last night to read that Jon Huntsman was going to suspend his presidential campaign.  I liked Huntsman.  I was always shocked he couldn't gain traction with the conservative base. He was a refreshing candidate and his overall experience was extraordinary.  

The political news media seemed enamored by Jon Huntsman and were continually questioning why conservatives weren't giving him a closer look.  

Photo from Esquire.com

In many ways, he seemed like the perfect "Anti-Mitt" candidate.  A conservative Christian family man with sound business experience, 8 years as one of Utah's most popular governors,  impressive record of job creation in Utah, an Ambassadorship under two presidents and experience working in the administration of four US Presidents.  Furthermore, he speaks Chinese fluently.  Impressive resume to say the least.  Unfortunately for Huntsman, his message never resonated.  Backing out before a dismal South Carolina turnout on Saturday was probably the best way to bow out with dignity.

So, today he ended his bid for the White House and endorsed Mitt Romney.  He said, "Despite our differences and the space between us on some of the issues...I believe it is now time for our party to unite around Mitt Romney, the best candidate best equipped to defeat Barack Obama."

What does this mean for Romney?  Most polls would indicate that a bump from Huntsman backing out will be slight if any.  However, in South Carolina where Newt Gingrich has declared a negative media attack or "Armageddon-like" assault on Romney's business record, the stakes could not be higher.   So, even a sliver of additional support might be just enough of a cushion for a crucial Romney victory on Saturday.  A victory which almost guarantees him the nomination and a Romney - Obama match up this fall.

Politics--it is an interesting beast.  It is about love and war, hate and loyalty, passion and persuasion, rivals and advocates.  It can all change in a day.  

The end to Jon Huntsman's bid for the Republican nomination may not mean a numbers surge for Romney...yet.  But it goes without saying, that having a rival turn into an endorser can be game changing for any candidate.  We saw this same thing happen when Governor Tim Pawlenty dropped out of the race last fall.  Once a huge Romney rival, he has since become one of Mitt Romney's most vocal weapons.  Pawlenty's message is effective.  Pawlenty's support is persuasive.  Pawlenty's endorsement is invaluable.

To have someone like Jon Huntsman now promoting Mitt Romney is great news for Mitt.  Although many would argue that it is only self-serving and only indicates a possible future in politics for Huntsman, the point is that Huntsman gets it.  His candidacy may have been weak, but a Huntsman endorsement is huge.

It is a great day for Mitt.