Extra Credit News Story
Huntsman Declares Presidential Campaign
Today, Jon Huntsman officially declared officially that he is seeking the 2012 Republican nomination. “Today, I am a candidate for the office of President of the United States,” said Huntsman in the beginning of his announcement.
This announcement makes Huntsman the ninth declared candidate, with four more still undecided, and the second member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to be running.
In a crowded field, Huntsman already is trying to distinguish himself from the rest of the GOP candidates. Quoting his service as national ambassador to China, he claims foreign policy experience that the others lack.
He quotes a favorable view of America from the most populated country. “The view of America from 10,000 miles away is a picture of liberty, opportunity and justice; people secure in their rights and in love with their freedom, who’ve done more good for more people than any other nation in history,” he said.
Ironically, his strongest opponent in the field is fellow Mormon, Mitt Romney. Both will surely be tapping into the same veins for financial support.
While there seems to be reasons to believe that he could contend for the White House if he gains the nomination, the most difficult part will certainly be getting that far. “He may rise to the top somehow, but I just don’t see the path right now,” independent pollster Matt Towery tells Newsmax.
Huntsman is making a strong push for patriotism, national pride, and is blatantly trying to imitate Reagan, trying to invoke positive memories. Starting with having his speech in the same place as Reagan, in the shadow of the Statue of Liberty.
A video introducing him, portrayed him wearing denim and riding a motorcycle across the desert, further making comparisons to Reagan.
In summary, Huntsman said, “For the first time in history, we are passing down to the next generation a country that is less powerful, less compassionate, less competitive and less confident than the one we got.
“This, ladies and gentlemen, is totally unacceptable and it is totally un-American. It need not, must not, will not be our permanent condition. We will not be the first American generation that lets down the next generation.”