Hubbry Logo
Jon Huntsman Jr.Jon Huntsman Jr.Main
Open search
Jon Huntsman Jr.
Community hub
Jon Huntsman Jr.
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Jon Huntsman Jr.
Jon Huntsman Jr.
Jon Huntsman Jr.
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Key Information

This article is part of
a series about
Jon Huntsman Jr.
Governor of Utah
Presidential campaign

Jon Meade Huntsman Jr. (born March 26, 1960) is an American politician, businessman, and diplomat who served as the 16th governor of Utah from 2005 to 2009. A member of the Republican Party, he served as the ambassador of the United States to Russia from 2017 to 2019, ambassador to China from 2009 to 2011, and ambassador to Singapore from 1992 to 1993.

Huntsman served in every presidential administration from the presidency of Ronald Reagan to the first Donald Trump administration. He began his career as a White House staff assistant for Ronald Reagan, and was appointed deputy assistant secretary of commerce and U.S. ambassador to Singapore by George H. W. Bush. Later as deputy U.S. trade representative under George W. Bush, he launched global trade negotiations in Doha in 2001 and guided the accession of China into the World Trade Organization. He was CEO of Huntsman Family Holdings, a private entity that held the stock the family owned in Huntsman Corporation. He was a board member of Huntsman Corporation, and as chair of the Huntsman Cancer Foundation. Huntsman is the only American ambassador to have served in both Russia and China,[1] having been the U.S. ambassador to China under Barack Obama from 2009 to 2011 and as the U.S. ambassador to Russia under Donald Trump from 2017 to 2019.

While governor of Utah, Huntsman was named chair of the Western Governors Association and joined the executive committee of the National Governors Association. Under his leadership, Utah was named the best-managed state in America by the Pew Center on the States.[2] During his tenure, Huntsman was one of the most popular governors in the country, and won reelection in a landslide in 2008, winning every single county. He left office with approval ratings over 80 percent and was succeeded by Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert.[3] He was an unsuccessful candidate for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination.[4] He ran for governor again in 2020, but narrowly lost in the Republican primary to Lieutenant Governor Spencer Cox.[5]

Huntsman is a No Labels National Co-chair, and in July 2023, appeared with US senator Joe Manchin as headliners for a No Labels Common Sense Agenda Town Hall in Manchester, New Hampshire.[6] Huntsman is a member of the Defense Policy Board Advisory Committee, but in April 2025 he was dismissed along with the entire board by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.[7]

Early life and education

[edit]

Jon Meade Huntsman Jr. was born on March 26, 1960.[8] His father, Jon Huntsman Sr., was a business executive who later became a billionaire through the company he founded, the Huntsman Corporation, which achieved breakthrough success in the 1970s manufacturing generic styrofoam cartons for McDonald's and other fast food companies and by the 1990s was one of the largest petrochemical companies in the United States.[9] His mother is Karen (née Haight) Huntsman, daughter of David B. Haight, an apostle in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).[10] Through his father, Huntsman is the great-great-great-grandson of early LDS Church leader Parley P. Pratt.[11]

In 1975, Huntsman earned the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank of the Boy Scouts of America.[12] He attended Highland High School in Salt Lake City but dropped out before graduating to perform as a keyboard player in a rock band.[13][14] Huntsman later obtained a G.E.D. and enrolled at the University of Utah, where he became a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity like his father. Jon Huntsman Jr. served as a missionary for the LDS Church in Taiwan for two years and later transferred to the University of Pennsylvania, graduating with a bachelor of arts in international politics in 1987.

Political career

[edit]

While Huntsman was visiting the White House in 1971 during his father's service as special assistant to U.S. president Richard Nixon, Henry Kissinger confided to the eleven-year-old that he was secretly traveling to China.[15] Jon Huntsman Jr. worked as a White House staff assistant in Reagan administration in 1983. From 1987 to 1988, Huntsman and his family lived and worked in Taipei, Taiwan.[16]

Huntsman and Enid Greene Mickelsen were co-directors of Reagan's campaign in Utah.[17] During the 1988 presidential election, he was a state delegate at the 1988 Republican National Convention.[18]

George H. W. Bush administration

[edit]

Under President George H. W. Bush, Huntsman was deputy assistant secretary in the International Trade Administration from 1989 to 1990.[16] He served as deputy assistant secretary of commerce for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, from 1990 to 1991.[16]

In June 1992, Bush appointed Huntsman as U.S. ambassador to Singapore,[19] and he was unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate in August.[20] At 32 years old, he became the youngest U.S. Ambassador to serve in over 100 years.[21][22]

George W. Bush administration

[edit]

In January 2001, after George W. Bush took office as president, The Washington Post reported there was a strong possibility Huntsman would be appointed to be the new U.S. ambassador to China.[23] In March, Huntsman reportedly turned down the nomination to be the U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia.[24] On March 28, Bush appointed Huntsman to be one of two Deputy United States trade representatives in his administration;[25] he served in this role from 2001 to 2003.[16]

Governor of Utah

[edit]
Main articles: 2004 Utah gubernatorial election and 2008 Utah gubernatorial election

In March 2003, Huntsman resigned his post in the Bush administration. In mid-August, three-term incumbent governor Mike Leavitt, who Huntsman strongly supported, decided not to run for re-election in order to become EPA administrator in the Bush administration.[26][27][28] Shortly thereafter, Huntsman filed papers to run for Governor of Utah.[29] In the June 2004 Republican primary, Huntsman defeated State Representative Nolan Karras 66–34%.[30] In November 2004, Huntsman was elected with 58% of the vote, defeating Democratic Party nominee Scott Matheson Jr.[31] In 2008, Huntsman won re-election with 77.7% of the vote, defeating Democratic nominee Bob Springmeyer.[32]

Huntsman maintained high approval ratings as governor of Utah, reaching 90% approval at times. He left office with his approval ratings over 80%.[3][33][34] Utah was named the best managed state by the Pew Center on the States.[2] Following his term as governor, Utah was also named a top-three state to do business in.[35] The 2006 Cato Institute evaluation gave Huntsman an overall fiscal policy grade of "B"; the institute gave him an "A" on tax policy and an "F" on spending policy.[36]

Depending on the methodology used, Utah was either the top-ranked state or fourth-ranked state in the nation for job growth during Huntsman's tenure, with a rate of either 5.9% or 4.8% between 2005 and 2009.[37]

The Utah Taxpayers Association estimates that "tax cuts from 2005 to 2007 totaled $407 million." Huntsman proposed eliminating the corporate franchise tax for small businesses making less than $5 million. During his term as governor, he was successful in having Utah replace its progressive income tax with a top rate of 7%, with a flat tax of 5%; cut the statewide sales tax rate from 4.75% to 4.65% and sales tax on unprepared food from 4.70% to 1.75%; and raise motor vehicle registration fees. He proposed a 400% increase in cigarette taxes, but the measure was never signed into law. In 2008, he successively proposed tax credits for families purchasing their own health insurance, as well as income tax credits for capital gains and solar projects.[38]

During Huntsman's administration, the state budget rose from $8.28 to 11.57 billion.[39]

Huntsman supported cap and trade policies, and as governor, signed the Western Climate Initiative.[40] He also supported an increase in the federal minimum wage.[41] He also cut some regulations, including Utah's very strict alcohol laws.[42] In 2007, he signed into law the Parent Choice in Education Act, which he said was "the largest school-voucher bill to date in the United States. This massive school-choice program provides scholarships ranging from $500 to $3000 to help parents send their children to the private school of their choice. The program was open to all current public school children, as well as some children already in private school." The voucher law was later repealed in a public referendum.[43]

Huntsman was one of John McCain's earliest supporters in his 2008 presidential campaign.[44][45] Huntsman helped McCain campaign in New Hampshire and other early primary states and went with him to Iraq twice including over Thanksgiving in 2007.[46] At the 2008 Republican National Convention, Huntsman delivered a nominating speech for Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, the party's nominee for vice president.[47] Huntsman also helped raise more than $500,000 for McCain's 2008 presidential campaign.[48] Speaking about McCain's loss, Huntsman later observed, "We're fundamentally staring down a demographic shift that we've never seen before in America".[49]

Ambassador to China

[edit]
Huntsman's official portrait as U.S. ambassador to China in July 2009
Huntsman aboard Air Force One en route to Beijing in November 2009

President Barack Obama nominated Jon Huntsman to serve as the United States Ambassador to China on May 16, 2009, noting his experience in the region and proficiency in Mandarin Chinese. His nomination was formally delivered to the Senate on July 6, 2009, and on July 23, 2009, he appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee,[50] which favorably reported his nomination to the full Senate on August 4, 2009.[51] On August 7, 2009, the Senate unanimously confirmed Huntsman[52] and he formally resigned as governor of Utah and was sworn in as ambassador to China on August 11, 2009.[53] Huntsman arrived in Beijing on August 21, 2009, to begin his assignment, and he delivered his first press conference on August 22 after a meeting with Commerce Minister Chen Deming.[54]

In February 2011, Huntsman made a controversial appearance at the site of a planned pro-democracy protest in Beijing.[55] The spokesman for the U.S. Embassy in China stated that Huntsman had been unaware of the planned protest, and happened to be strolling through the area on a family outing.[56][57]

Huntsman resigned from his position as ambassador, effective April 30, 2011, in order to return to the United States to explore a 2012 presidential bid.

2012 presidential campaign

[edit]
Main article: Jon Huntsman 2012 presidential campaign
Huntsman speaking in Orlando, Florida in September 2011

Background

[edit]

Huntsman's name appeared on lists of potential Republican nominees for the 2012 presidential election as early as 2008 and 2009,[58][59] and John McCain specifically mentioned Huntsman as a potential candidate for the 2012 election in March 2009.[60]

In August 2010, a group of political strategists close to Huntsman formed a political action committee called Horizon PAC.[61] On February 22, 2011, Horizon PAC launched its official website, stating that it "supports free-market values, principled leadership and a commitment to long-term solutions".[62]

Campaign

[edit]

On January 31, 2011, Huntsman submitted his formal resignation from his post as U.S. Ambassador to China effective April 30, 2011, indicating his plans to return to the United States at that time.[63] Huntsman's associates indicated that he was likely to explore a 2012 Republican presidential bid.[64][65][66]

On May 3, 2011, he formed an official fundraising political action committee, building on the efforts of the previously established Horizon PAC.[67] On May 18, 2011, Huntsman opened his 2012 national campaign headquarters in Orlando, Florida. Huntsman formally entered the race for the Republican presidential nomination on June 21, 2011, announcing his bid in a speech at Liberty State Park in New Jersey, with the Statue of Liberty in the background—the same site where Ronald Reagan launched his campaign in 1980.[68][69]

Huntsman sought to establish himself as an anti-negative candidate and take the "high road". In his announcement, he also stated "I don't think you need to run down someone's reputation in order to run for the office of President."[70]

Huntsman focused his energy and resources on the New Hampshire primary. On October 18, 2011, he boycotted the Republican presidential debate in Las Vegas, out of deference to New Hampshire, which was locked in a political scheduling fight with Nevada.[71] Huntsman eventually finished third in New Hampshire, and announced the end of his campaign on January 16, 2012. He endorsed Mitt Romney at that time.[72]

Post-campaign politics

[edit]
Huntsman's official photograph in September 2017 during the first Trump administration

A month after dropping out of the 2012 race, Huntsman suggested there was a need for a third party in the United States, stating that "the real issues [were] not being addressed, and it's time that we put forward an alternative vision." Huntsman said that he would not run as a third-party presidential candidate in 2012.[73] In early July, Huntsman announced that he would not be attending the 2012 Republican National Convention for the first time since he attended as a Reagan delegate in 1984; he stated he would "not be attending this year's convention, nor any Republican convention in the future until the party focuses on a bigger, bolder, more confident future for the United States—a future based on problem solving, inclusiveness, and a willingness to address the trust deficit, which is every bit as corrosive as our fiscal and economic deficits."[74]

Shortly after Obama's re-election, Obama's campaign manager Jim Messina admitted that the Obama campaign believed Huntsman would have been a particularly difficult candidate to defeat in the general election. Messina said that the campaign was "honest about our concerns about Huntsman" and that Huntsman "would have been a very tough candidate".[75]

In January 2014, Huntsman was named chairman of the Atlanticist think-tank the Atlantic Council.[76] Huntsman indicated in an interview with Politico that he would not run in the 2016 presidential election.[77]

In April 2016, Huntsman decided to endorse Republican nominee Donald Trump,[78] but later retracted his endorsement of Trump following the Access Hollywood controversy.[79] However, Huntsman later defended Trump in interviews with Fox News and The New York Times after Trump received criticism for accepting a congratulatory phone call with the president of Taiwan, Tsai Ing-wen, during his transition process.[80] Huntsman said the critics were overreacting to Trump's decision to accept the phone call, and that Trump's nontraditional style might be an opportunity for a shift in Asia relations in future talks with China.[80]

In November 2016, Huntsman said he was considering a run for the U.S. Senate in 2018, though he ultimately chose not to run for the seat.[81]

Huntsman was the co-chair of the Commission on the Theft of American Intellectual Property, along with Dennis C. Blair.[82] The commission is an independent and bipartisan initiative from the public and private sectors. Its mission is to document and assess the extent of international intellectual property theft, particularly by China, and propose appropriate policy responses. According to the commission's analysis, the U.S. has lost up to $600 billion in illicit technology transfers to China.[83] According to Huntsman,

The vast, illicit transfer of American innovation is one of the most significant economic issues impacting U.S. competitiveness that the nation has not fully addressed. It ... must be a top priority of the new administration [in 2016].[82]

Ambassador to Russia

[edit]

On December 3, 2016, the Associated Press reported Huntsman was being considered by Donald Trump and the Trump transition team as a possible choice for United States Secretary of State in 2017,[80] although Rex Tillerson was chosen 10 days later.

On March 8, 2017, it was reported that Huntsman accepted a position as United States Ambassador to Russia.[84][85] During his Senate confirmation hearings, he said, "There is no question that the Russian Government interfered in the U.S. election" in 2016. He also said the relationship between the two countries was "among the most consequential and complex foreign policy challenges we face."[86] Huntsman was unanimously confirmed by the Senate, via voice vote, on September 28, 2017.[87][88]

During his time as ambassador, Huntsman reported having access to senior Russian officials, which he stated was not always the case during his ambassadorship to China. He also expressed a desire to avoid repeating past mistakes in the relationship, stating: "In the years past, every new administration has tried to reset or redo of some sort.(...) Let's not repeat the cycles of the past, because in every case,(...) those resets could not be sustained. Let's not even begin with that thought in mind; no resets, no redos. Just take the relationship for what it is, clear-eyed and realistically."[1]

Huntsman submitted his resignation as U.S. Ambassador to Russia to President Trump on August 6, 2019, with his resignation taking effect on October 3, 2019.[89][90] After Huntsman left post, Bartle B. Gorman, deputy ambassador to Russia, served as the embassy's Chargé d'Affaires[91] (until the arrival of John J. Sullivan as new ambassador).

2020 Utah gubernatorial campaign

[edit]
Main article: 2020 Utah gubernatorial election

After his resignation as U.S. ambassador to Russia in August 2019, many speculated that Huntsman was considering another run for Utah governor.[92] An October 2019 poll of likely Utah voters showed Huntsman as a favorite among several potential gubernatorial candidates.[93]

On November 14, 2019, Huntsman announced on KSL Radio that he would run for Governor of Utah in the 2020 election.[94] In the six weeks between Huntsman's announcement and the end of 2019, Huntsman's campaign raised $520,000, and visited all 29 Utah counties.[95]

His daughter, Abby Huntsman, announced in January 2020 that she would leave her position on The View to join his gubernatorial campaign as a senior advisor.[96] On February 7, 2020, Huntsman announced that Provo city mayor Michelle Kaufusi would be his gubernatorial running mate.[97] A poll taken among likely voters in February showed Huntsman leading the race with 32% support, while 31% remained undecided.[98] However, Lieutenant Governor Spencer Cox ultimately won the primary with 36.4% of the vote against Huntsman's 34.6%, and went on to win the general election.[99]

Political positions

[edit]

Huntsman has been described as "a conservative technocrat-optimist with moderate positions who was willing to work substantively with President Barack Obama"[100] and identifies himself as a center-right conservative.[101]

During his first term as Utah governor, Huntsman listed economic development, healthcare reform, education, and energy security as his top priorities. He oversaw tax cuts and advocated reorganizing the way that services were distributed so that the government would not become overwhelmed by the state's fast-growing population.

Building a winning coalition to tackle the looming fiscal and trust deficits will be impossible [for Republicans] if we continue to alienate broad segments of the population. We must be happy warriors who refuse to tolerate those who want Hispanic votes but not Hispanic neighbors.

— Jon Huntsman Jr.[102]

Healthcare

[edit]

During his time as Utah governor, Huntsman proposed a plan to reform healthcare, mainly through the private sector, by using tax breaks and negotiation to keep prices down.[103]

In 2007, when asked about a healthcare mandate, Huntsman said, "I'm comfortable with a requirement–you can call it whatever you want, but at some point we're going to have to get serious about how we deal with this issue". The healthcare plan that passed in Utah under Huntsman did not include a healthcare mandate.[104]

Fiscal policy

[edit]
Huntsman speaking at the World Economic Forum in Dalian, China, in September 2009

In a 2008 evaluation of state governors' fiscal policies, the libertarian Cato Institute praised Huntsman's conservative tax policies, ranking him in a tie for fifth place on overall fiscal policy. He was particularly lauded for his efforts to cut taxes. The report specifically highlighted his reductions of the sales tax and simplification of the tax code.[105] However the report concluded that: "Unfortunately, Huntsman has completely dropped the ball on spending, with per capita spending increasing at about 10 percent annually during his tenure."[105] He defines his taxation policy as "business friendly".[106]

As part of his presidential campaign Huntsman said "our tax code has devolved into a maze of special-interest carve-outs, loopholes, and temporary provisions that cost taxpayers more than $400 billion a year to comply with". The candidate called for "[getting] rid of all tax expenditures, all loopholes, all deductions, all subsidies. Use that to lower rates across the board. And do it on a revenue-neutral basis".[107]

In addition, Huntsman has proposed reducing the corporate tax rate from 35% to 25%, eliminating corporate taxes on income earned overseas, and implementing a tax holiday to encourage corporations to return profits from offshore tax havens. He favored eliminating taxes on capital gains and dividends.[108]

Social issues

[edit]

As the governor of Utah, Huntsman signed several bills placing limits on abortion.[109]

During the 2012 presidential race, and as governor of Utah, Huntsman supported civil unions for same-sex couples but not same-sex marriage.[110][111][112]

In a February 2013 op-ed published in The American Conservative, Huntsman updated his stance to one of support for same-sex marriage, stating: "All Americans should be treated equally by the law, whether they marry in a church, another religious institution, or a town hall. This does not mean that any religious group would be forced by the state to recognize relationships that run counter to their conscience. Civil equality is compatible with, and indeed promotes, freedom of conscience."[102][113] In 2013, Huntsman was a signatory to an amicus curiae brief submitted to the Supreme Court in support of same-sex marriage during the Hollingsworth v. Perry case.[112]

Environment and energy

[edit]

In 2007, in response to the issue of global warming, Huntsman signed the Western Climate Initiative, by which Utah joined with other governments in agreeing to pursue targets for reduced production of greenhouse gases.[114] He also appeared in an advertisement sponsored by Environmental Defense, in which he said, "Now it's time for Congress to act by capping greenhouse-gas pollution."[114]

In 2011, in response to comments by Rick Perry and other Republican presidential candidates, Huntsman stated he "believe[s] in evolution and trust[s] scientists" on climate change.[115] Commenting later on his statement, Huntsman remarked "I felt that it was important to remind a lot of Republican voters who care and a lot of independent voters who care, that there is a candidate who does believe in science."[116]

Huntsman has stated a preference for international cooperation in handling climate change, stating "it's a global issue. We can enact policies here [in the United States], but I wouldn't want to unilaterally disarm as a country."[117]

Foreign policy

[edit]
Huntsman meeting with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen in June 2016

Huntsman has repeatedly stated, "We need to continue working closely with China to convince North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program". He has also named Taiwan, human rights, and Tibet among the "areas where we have differences with China" and vowed "robust engagement" as ambassador. Huntsman, who lived in Taiwan as a Mormon missionary, said he felt "personally invested in the peaceful resolution of cross-strait differences, in a way that respects the wishes of the people on both Taiwan and the mainland. In 2009, he said that then-current U.S. policy "support[ed] this objective, and [he was] encouraged by the recent relaxing of cross-strait tensions."[118]

During his 2020 gubernatorial campaign, and after serving as Ambassador to Russia, Huntsman stated that "[the Russians] want to see us divided. They want to drive a wedge into politics... The American people do not understand the expertise at their disposal to divide us, to prey on our divisions. They take both sides of an issue to deepen the political divide. They are active during mass shootings. They are active during racial tension. They take advantage of us. We think it's fellow Americans who are taking extreme positions sometimes. It's not."[119]

Immigration

[edit]

In 2005, Huntsman signed a bill giving undocumented migrants access to "driving-privilege cards", which allowed them to have driving privileges but unlike driver licenses, cannot be used for identification purposes. In a 2011 presidential debate, Huntsman defended the move, explaining that "[illegal immigrants] were given a driver's license before and they were using that for identification purposes. And I thought that was wrong. Instead we issued a driver privilege card, which in our state allowed our economy to continue to function. And it said in very bold letters, not to be used for identification purposes. It was a pragmatic local government driven fix and it proved that the Tenth Amendment works."[120]

In June 2007, Huntsman joined other Western governors in urging the Senate to pass comprehensive immigration reform.[121] As governor, Huntsman threatened to veto a measure repealing in-state college tuition for illegal immigrants.[122]

Huntsman has stated support for a border fence, saying that, "as an American, the thought of a fence to some extent repulses me ... but the situation is such that I don't think we have a choice".[123]

Huntsman supports granting more H-1B visas to foreigners.[124] Huntsman also supported the DREAM Act, which proposed a path to citizenship for young people brought to the United States by their parents illegally.[125]

Business career

[edit]

From 1993 to 2001, Huntsman served as an executive for the Huntsman Corporation, chairman of the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, and CEO of Huntsman Family Holdings Company.

In January 2012, Huntsman Cancer Institute announced that Huntsman had been appointed to the position of chairman, replacing his father, who founded the institute.[126]

Huntsman was appointed to the board of directors of the Ford Motor Co. in February 2012. The announcement quoted Ford's executive chairman, William Clay Ford Jr., as praising Huntsman's global knowledge and experience—especially in Asia—as well as his tenure as the governor of Utah.[127] Huntsman was appointed to the board of Caterpillar Inc. in April 2012.[128]

From 2014 to 2017, and again from September 2020, Huntsman served on the board of directors of Chevron Corporation.[129]

Huntsman is a founding director of the Pacific Council on International Policy and has served on the boards of the Brookings Institution, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, the Asia Society in New York, and the National Bureau of Asian Research.

Personal life

[edit]

Huntsman has eight brothers and sisters. He married activist Mary Kaye and they have seven children: daughters Mary Anne (b. 1985, who is married to Evan Morgan, son of CNN commentator Gloria Borger.[130]), Abigail (b. 1986), Elizabeth ("Liddy"; b. 1988), Gracie Mei (b. 1999; adopted from China), and Asha Bharati (b. 2006; adopted from India)[131] and sons Jon III (b. 1990), William (b. 1993), both of whom are graduates of the U.S. Naval Academy, and serving active duty assignments.

Huntsman is distantly related to 2012 Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney.[132][133][134] Their relationship has been reported to be one of rivalry. After a scandal erupted over the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Romney and Huntsman were both considered to take over the Salt Lake Organizing Committee for the games. After intense lobbying, Romney was chosen, and the Huntsman family was reportedly "livid".[135] As Romney prepared his 2008 presidential run, he began consulting Huntsman on foreign policy and trade issues. Huntsman's father signed on as a finance chair for Romney's campaign, and it was expected that Huntsman would endorse Romney; instead, Huntsman backed John McCain and became one of the McCain campaign's national co-chairs.[135] Huntsman did endorse Romney in the 2012 election after dropping out.[135]

Huntsman is a self-proclaimed fan of the progressive rock genre and played keyboards during high school in the band Wizard.[136] Huntsman joined REO Speedwagon on the piano for two songs during their concert at the Utah State Fair in 2005. Huntsman is a fan of riding motocross, and he helped in pushing extreme sports and outdoor sports and tourism for the State of Utah.[137]

Huntsman has been awarded eleven honorary doctorate degrees,[138] including an honorary doctorate of public service from Snow College in 2005,[139] an honorary doctorate of science from Westminster College in 2008,[140] an honorary doctorate of humane letters from the University of Utah in 2010,[141] an honorary doctorate of laws from the University of Pennsylvania in 2010,[142] and an honorary doctorate of law from Southern New Hampshire University in 2011.[143] He also received honorary doctorates from the University of Washington, University of Arizona, Utah State University, and University of Wisconsin. He has been recognized as a Significant Sig by Sigma Chi.[144]

In 2007 Huntsman was awarded the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award by the BSA.[145] In October 2018, Huntsman was diagnosed with stage-1 melanoma and sought treatment at the Huntsman Cancer Institute.[146] On June 10, 2020, Huntsman announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19.[147][148][149]

Religious views

[edit]

Huntsman is a member of the LDS Church and served a church mission to Taiwan. In an interview with Time magazine, he stated that he considers himself more spiritual than religious,[150][151] and in December 2010, he told Newsweek that the LDS Church doesn't have a monopoly on his spiritual life.[152] In a May 2011 interview, Huntsman said "I believe in God. I'm a good Christian. I'm very proud of my Mormon heritage. I am Mormon."[153]

Huntsman rejects the notion that faith and evolution are mutually exclusive. He said, "The minute that the Republican Party becomes . . . the anti-science party, we have a huge problem. We lose a whole lot of people who would otherwise allow us to win the election in 2012."[154]

Electoral history

[edit]
2020 Utah Gubernatorial Republican primary results[155]
Party Candidate Votes %
Republican Spencer Cox 190,565 36.15%
Republican Jon Huntsman Jr. 184,246 34.95%
Republican Greg Hughes 110,835 21.02%
Republican Thomas Wright 41,532 7.88%
Total votes 527,178 100.0%
2008 Utah gubernatorial election[156]
Party Candidate Votes % ±%
Republican Jon Huntsman Jr. (incumbent) 735,049 77.63% +19.89%
Democratic Bob Springmeyer 186,503 19.72% −21.62%
Libertarian Dell Schanze 24,820 2.62%
Write-ins 153 0.02%
Majority 547,546 57.91% +41.51%
Turnout 945,525
Republican hold Swing
2004 Utah gubernatorial election[157]
Party Candidate Votes % ±%
Republican Jon Huntsman Jr. 531,190 57.74% +1.97%
Democratic Scott Matheson Jr. 380,359 41.35% −0.92%
Personal Choice Ken Larsen 8,399 0.91%
Write-ins 12 0.00%
Majority 150,831 16.40% +2.89%
Turnout 919,960
Republican hold Swing

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jon Huntsman Jr.

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Jon M. Huntsman Jr. (born 1960) is an American businessman, diplomat, and former politician who served as the 16th of from 2005 to 2009, Ambassador to from 2009 to 2011, and Ambassador to from 2017 to 2019. As a Republican, Huntsman was elected in 2004 and re-elected in 2008 with a record share of the vote, during which he prioritized through reductions, reforms, and increased funding, contributing to Utah's strong fiscal position. His diplomatic career featured bipartisan appointments: nominated to by Democratic President after resigning as , and to by Republican President , with unanimous confirmations in both cases as well as prior roles including to ; he holds the distinction of being the only U.S. citizen to serve as chief of mission in both and . Huntsman sought the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, emphasizing job creation and , but suspended his campaign after poor primary showings and endorsed . In the private sector, he has held senior positions at since 2020 and since 2024, focusing on strategic growth and policy. Known for moderate positions within the GOP, including support for civil unions and criticism of protectionist trade policies, Huntsman has faced intra-party tensions, notably endorsing in 2020 and publicly faulting Trump for prioritizing personal interests after the Capitol events.

Early life and education

Family background and upbringing

Jon Huntsman Jr. was born on March 26, 1960. He was the first of nine children born to Jon M. Huntsman Sr., a self-made executive who founded , and Karen Haight Huntsman. Huntsman Sr. rose from impoverished origins in rural , where he was born in 1937 to a schoolteacher father and homemaker mother, to build a multinational enterprise through innovation in plastics and chemicals, amassing significant wealth that shaped the family's affluent circumstances. The Huntsman family adhered to the faith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with Karen Huntsman connected through her father, David B. Haight, a longtime apostle in the church hierarchy. Jon Huntsman Jr. grew up primarily in Salt Lake City, Utah, amid this religious and entrepreneurial environment, where his father's business pursuits and emphasis on philanthropy—later exemplified by billions donated to cancer research and education—provided early exposure to public service and family-driven enterprise. In 1970, when Huntsman Jr. was 10, the family briefly relocated eastward as his father joined the Nixon administration in a policy role before returning to Utah to expand the burgeoning company. This peripatetic element underscored a childhood blending stability in Utah's Mormon community with the demands of his father's high-stakes career.

Academic pursuits and early influences

Huntsman dropped out of high school during his senior year to pursue other interests, including performance. At age 19, he undertook a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in , where he acquired fluency in and , experiences that cultivated his lifelong interest in Asian affairs and . Following his mission, Huntsman attended the before transferring to the , from which he earned a degree in international politics in 1987. His academic focus on international studies aligned with early exposures to global business through his father, Jon Huntsman Sr., a self-made chemical industry entrepreneur who founded and instilled values of innovation, hard work, and philanthropy rooted in Mormon principles. These formative years, marked by familial emphasis on and service, alongside the linguistic and cultural immersion from his mission, profoundly shaped Huntsman's , directing him toward and rather than solely inheriting the .

Early career

Initial business involvements

Following his brief tenure as a White House staff assistant under President Ronald Reagan from 1982 to 1983, Jon Huntsman Jr. entered the private sector by joining the Huntsman Corporation, a multinational chemical manufacturing firm founded by his father, Jon Huntsman Sr., in 1970. He began in 1983 as a project manager and corporate secretary, roles that involved overseeing operational projects in the company's expanding petrochemical and packaging divisions. From 1983 to 1989, Huntsman held various executive positions at the corporation, contributing to its growth during a period when the firm transitioned from niche packaging products, such as plastic cartons, to broader chemical production amid industry consolidation. These roles provided him with direct experience in and manufacturing operations, leveraging the company's global supply chains. After a return to government service in trade-related roles during the late and early , Huntsman rejoined the family business in 1993 as vice chairman of the board and a member of the executive committee, a position he maintained until 2001. In this capacity, he focused on strategic expansion and family governance of the enterprise, which by then had achieved multibillion-dollar revenues through acquisitions and diversification into specialty chemicals.

Entry into federal service

Huntsman entered federal service as a staff assistant in the under President in the early 1980s. In May 1989, President appointed him Deputy of Commerce for Trade Development, a role he held until 1990, followed by service as Deputy of Commerce for East Asian and Pacific Affairs until June 1992. In these positions, Huntsman focused on trade policy and economic relations with , leveraging his business background in international chemicals. On August 11, 1992, Bush nominated Huntsman as U.S. Ambassador to , with confirmation leading to presentation of credentials on September 22, 1992. His tenure was brief, ending in early 1993 amid the presidential transition to . After returning to private sector roles, including leadership of the Huntsman Cancer Foundation from 1995 to 2001, Huntsman re-entered federal service in 2001 as Deputy U.S. Trade Representative under President , confirmed by unanimous consent on August 6, 2001, and serving until 2003. In this capacity, he negotiated agreements across and contributed to global trade initiatives.

Governorship of Utah

2004 election and first term

Jon Huntsman Jr. announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for Governor of on March 9, 2004, positioning himself as a business-oriented reformer drawing on his experience as Deputy Trade Representative. In the Republican primary held on , 2004, Huntsman secured the nomination by defeating incumbent Governor Olene Walker and State Senator Nolan Karras, capitalizing on voter desire for change despite Walker's appointment to the office following Michael Leavitt's resignation. His campaign emphasized economic growth, education improvement, and fiscal responsibility, contrasting with Democratic nominee Scott Matheson Jr., the son of former Governor Scott M. Matheson, in debates that highlighted differences on taxation and government efficiency. In the general election on , 2004, Huntsman and running mate won decisively with 531,190 votes, or 57.74% of the popular vote, against Matheson's 368,859 votes (40.12%), reflecting strong Republican support in the heavily conservative state. Huntsman was inaugurated as Utah's 16th on January 3, 2005, pledging to streamline government operations and foster business development. During his first term from 2005 to 2009, Huntsman prioritized tax reforms, signing in 2007 that simplified the code, reduced rates, and eliminated certain deductions to promote economic competitiveness, which contributed to Utah's among the top states for business climate. The administration oversaw budget surpluses, including a $1.6 billion surplus in 2007, enabling investments in and a tripling of the state's rainy day fund to historic levels exceeding $400 million by 2008, bolstering fiscal resilience amid national economic pressures. Economic policies supported job growth, with Utah achieving unemployment rates below the national average and leading in private-sector job creation during parts of the term. initiatives increased funding for K-12 and higher education, while efforts focused on expanding access through market-based reforms rather than mandates. Huntsman's approval ratings remained high, often above 70%, reflecting public approval of the state's prosperity under his leadership.

Policy achievements and economic record

During Jon Huntsman Jr.'s tenure as Governor of from 2005 to 2009, the state achieved the highest job growth rate among all U.S. states, averaging 3.4% annually from 2005 to 2008. This performance contributed to historic lows in and positioned as a leader in economic expansion amid national challenges. Huntsman maintained balanced budgets, preserved the state's triple-A bond rating, and tripled the rainy-day fund from approximately $250 million to over $750 million, enhancing fiscal resilience. A cornerstone of Huntsman's was comprehensive enacted in 2007, which lowered individual rates from a top marginal rate of 7% to a flat 5%, eliminated es on groceries and certain services, and shifted the burden toward a more business-friendly structure. This overhaul, praised by the as a model for simplifying codes while broadening the base, represented the largest in history, reducing the overall burden and stimulating . The reforms coincided with surpluses that enabled targeted investments without increasing state debt. Huntsman prioritized education funding, proposing and signing budgets that increased K-12 allocations by significant margins, including a proposed $2.5 billion for the Minimum School Program in , directing 84% of new general fund revenues to . His administration also launched the Utah Science Technology and Research (USTAR) initiative in , investing over $60 million initially to recruit top researchers and develop innovation centers at universities, fostering high-tech clusters in fields like and to drive long-term economic diversification. In , Huntsman advanced clean energy development, signing legislation to promote as a reliable baseload source and supporting wind energy projects, while joining the Western Regional Climate Action Initiative to explore reductions without imposing burdensome mandates. These efforts balanced environmental goals with economic imperatives, contributing to Utah's reputation for pragmatic governance and sustained growth.

Re-election and second term

Huntsman won re-election on , 2008, defeating Democratic nominee Bob Springmeyer and his Josie Valdez with 77.63% of the vote (734,049 votes) to their 19.72% (186,503 votes), alongside minor candidates accounting for the remainder. This result marked the largest percentage victory in a competitive gubernatorial election, reflecting Huntsman's sustained popularity amid strong economic performance during his first term. Inaugurated for a second term on January 5, , Huntsman focused on mitigating the effects of the ongoing national recession, including acceptance of portions of the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus package while emphasizing state-level fiscal discipline and investments. His administration prioritized job retention in key sectors like energy and technology, building on prior tax reductions and regulatory reforms that had contributed to Utah's above-average growth rates. Huntsman's second term lasted only seven months, concluding with his resignation on August 11, 2009, to accept President Barack Obama's nomination as U.S. Ambassador to —a bipartisan appointment confirmed unanimously by the on August 4. succeeded him, maintaining continuity in economic and education policies. Huntsman's early departure underscored his diplomatic expertise, honed from prior roles, over prolonged state leadership.

Diplomatic roles

Ambassador to China

President nominated Jon Huntsman Jr. as Ambassador to on May 16, 2009, citing his Mandarin fluency, prior diplomatic experience as ambassador to from 1992 to 1993, and extensive business ties in through the . The confirmed the nomination unanimously on August 7, 2009, reflecting bipartisan support for his qualifications despite his Republican affiliation. Huntsman was sworn in on August 11, 2009, presented credentials on August 28, 2009, and served until departing the post on April 28, 2011. During his tenure, Huntsman prioritized advancing bilateral cooperation on global challenges, including , clean energy, and economic recovery following the . He facilitated high-level dialogues, such as those marking the 30th anniversary of U.S.- diplomatic relations in 2009, and promoted people-to-people exchanges alongside military and economic ties. Huntsman's approach emphasized mutual interests in non-proliferation and , leveraging his personal connections to Chinese leaders to stabilize relations amid tensions over issues like currency valuation and . Huntsman's term included notable public incidents that highlighted frictions. On February 20, 2011, he appeared briefly at an in Beijing's district amid calls for a "Jasmine Revolution," prompting Chinese state media to accuse him of inciting unrest; Huntsman stated his presence was coincidental while walking nearby. In his April 2011 farewell address, he criticized the detention of Chinese dissidents and activists, asserting that true stability required addressing concerns. Huntsman resigned in early 2011 to return to the , officially citing a desire to reconnect with , though the move fueled speculation about his impending 2012 Republican presidential campaign. His service was praised for enhancing U.S. leverage in bilateral talks through pragmatic engagement, though some analysts noted limited progress on core disputes like trade imbalances.

Ambassador to Russia

President Donald Trump announced on July 19, 2017, his intention to nominate Jon Huntsman Jr. as the to . The Senate confirmed the nomination unanimously on September 28, 2017. Huntsman presented his credentials to Russian authorities on October 2, 2017, formally assuming the role amid heightened tensions following Russia's interference in the 2016 U.S. . During his confirmation hearings, Huntsman acknowledged Russia's meddling in the election as a fact, stating there was "no question" Moscow had interfered, while emphasizing the need for diplomatic engagement to manage bilateral risks. His tenure occurred against a backdrop of deteriorating relations, including U.S. sanctions in response to the 2018 nerve agent poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal in the United Kingdom, which prompted the expulsion of 60 Russian diplomats from the U.S. and reciprocal actions by Russia that reduced U.S. embassy staffing in Moscow by about 50%. Huntsman focused on maintaining embassy operations and fostering limited people-to-people contacts, such as educational and cultural exchanges, despite restrictions imposed by Russian authorities. Huntsman maintained a relatively low public profile in Moscow, prioritizing behind-the-scenes diplomacy over high-visibility confrontations, even as issues like the U.S. withdrawal from the in 2019 and ongoing conflicts in and strained ties. In a May 2019 , he argued that the U.S.-Russia estrangement "has gone on too long," advocating for pragmatic dialogue to address mutual security concerns rather than isolation. This approach reflected his foreign policy realism, balancing accountability for Russian actions with the recognition that complete disengagement risked escalation without advancing U.S. interests. On August 6, , Huntsman submitted his resignation to President Trump, effective October 3, , citing a desire to return to and fulfill broader civic obligations as an American citizen. In his letter, he described the posting as occurring during a "historically difficult time" and urged continued pressure on to cease behaviors threatening U.S. allies and interests. Following his departure, Huntsman critiqued an over-reliance on sanctions, suggesting the U.S. incorporate more incentives to influence Russian conduct effectively. His service ended without major diplomatic breakthroughs but preserved channels for communication amid adversarial dynamics.

Presidential and gubernatorial campaigns

2012 Republican presidential bid

Jon Huntsman Jr. formally announced his candidacy for the Republican presidential nomination on June 21, 2011, at in , shortly after resigning as U.S. to . He positioned himself as a results-oriented conservative with a record of bipartisan governance in and international experience, emphasizing economic recovery through job creation and criticizing President Barack Obama's policies while acknowledging Obama's personal decency. Huntsman's campaign strategy centered on the New Hampshire primary, where he invested heavily in retail politics and appealed to independent voters, largely bypassing the to conserve resources. In the Iowa caucuses on January 3, 2012, Huntsman garnered less than 1% of the vote, finishing far behind frontrunners due to his minimal presence in the state. He intensified attacks on in , questioning Romney's business record and electability, though these drew some backlash within the party for elevating Romney as the primary alternative to other conservatives. On January 10, 2012, Huntsman achieved third place in the primary with 17% of the vote, behind Romney's 39% and Ron Paul's 23%, a result that provided a modest boost but failed to generate the momentum needed against the more conservative field. Facing dismal national polling and an inability to expand beyond , Huntsman suspended his campaign on January 16, , in , and endorsed Romney as the nominee best positioned to defeat Obama. The early exit reflected challenges in connecting with the Republican base's preference for ideological purity over Huntsman's pragmatic, , despite his success and organizational efforts.

2020 Utah gubernatorial effort

Following his resignation as U.S. Ambassador to on August 6, , Jon Huntsman Jr. returned to and considered a third term as amid incumbent Gary Herbert's announcement that he would not seek re-election. On November 14, , Huntsman formally announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination, emphasizing 's rapid as the paramount challenge requiring experienced leadership to manage , , and economic pressures without excessive taxation or . He positioned himself as a pragmatic conservative with a proven record of bipartisan , drawing on his prior terms as from 2005 to 2009, during which achieved strong economic growth and budget surpluses. Huntsman's campaign gained early momentum, bolstered by his name recognition and fundraising prowess; he raised over $4 million by early 2020, outpacing initial rivals. On February 7, 2020, he selected Provo Mayor Michelle Kaufusi as his running mate for lieutenant governor, highlighting her executive experience in a growing city and appealing to Utah's diverse suburban voters. However, the race intensified against Lieutenant Governor Spencer Cox, who secured endorsements from Herbert and positioned himself as a "compassionate conservative" focused on unity amid national polarization. Huntsman's campaign faced headwinds, including his contraction of COVID-19 in June 2020, which forced quarantine and limited in-person outreach just before the primary. The Republican primary occurred on June 30, 2020, via mail-in voting due to the . Cox emerged victorious with 367,172 votes (53.0 percent) to Huntsman's 325,236 (47.0 percent), a margin of fewer than 42,000 votes. Huntsman conceded on July 6, 2020, acknowledging the results after absentee and provisional ballots confirmed Cox's lead, and praised the democratic process while expressing disappointment at the outcome. Analysts attributed Cox's upset to stronger organization, Herbert's backing, and voter preference for a fresh face less associated with national GOP infighting, despite Huntsman's initial polling advantages. In the primary's aftermath, some supporters urged Huntsman to pursue a in the general , citing Utah's Republican dominance and potential for an independent bid. Huntsman declined, announcing on July 13, 2020, that he would not run as a , reiterating support for Republican unity against Democratic nominee Chris Peterson. He reaffirmed this on August 28, 2020, effectively ending his 2020 effort and allowing Cox to proceed unencumbered to the general victory.

Post-2020 activities

Business leadership and board roles

In September 2020, Huntsman rejoined the board of directors of , where he had previously served from 2014 to 2017. In October 2020, he was re-elected to the board of , resuming a role held from 2012 to 2017 prior to his ambassadorship to . Huntsman continued his service on the board of , the chemical manufacturer founded by his father, having been appointed as a director on , 2012. At Ford, Huntsman's responsibilities expanded in April 2021 to vice chair of policy, advising CEO Jim Farley and Executive Chair Bill Ford on strategic policy issues amid the company's transition to electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies. In this capacity, he contributed to board oversight of and . In March 2024, named Huntsman vice chairman and president of strategic growth, effective April 15, 2024, tasking him with leading efforts to forge public-private partnerships and expand commercial collaborations in emerging markets. This executive role leverages his diplomatic experience to advance 's growth in payment technologies and inclusive initiatives.

Political engagements and commentary

Following his withdrawal from the 2020 Utah gubernatorial race after losing the Republican primary to Spencer Cox on July 7, 2020, Huntsman refrained from mounting a write-in campaign, announcing on August 28, 2020, that he would not pursue further electoral efforts that year. In the wake of the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, Huntsman publicly criticized former President Donald Trump, stating on January 7, 2021, that Trump had prioritized "self interest above the nation's" in refusing to concede the 2020 election, which Huntsman described as a failure of leadership that undermined democratic institutions. Huntsman engaged with centrist political initiatives through , a bipartisan group advocating for third-party alternatives to the major parties. On July 17, 2023, he appeared alongside Senator at a town hall, expressing openness to supporting an independent presidential ticket as a means to foster compromise but clarifying he was not seeking a vice-presidential role. Speculation arose in July 2023 about his potential candidacy on the ticket, given his diplomatic experience and moderate Republican profile, though he denied presidential ambitions on November 14, 2023, amid the group's challenges in securing a viable nominee. ultimately opted against fielding a 2024 presidential ticket on April 4, 2024, citing difficulties in attracting high-profile candidates amid partisan opposition. In October 2022, Huntsman endorsed incumbent Senator for re-election, praising Lee's focus on fiscal restraint and constitutional principles despite Lee's alignment with Trump-era policies. He also took a stand on university governance, halting donations to the on October 16, 2023, in response to the institution's perceived inadequate handling of following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, reflecting concerns over institutional responses to geopolitical tensions. By March 2025, Huntsman continued offering pointed commentary on Republican leadership, warning in public discussions that Trump's approach risked midterm defeats without a shift toward effective and critiquing associated disruptions in global trade dynamics. These statements underscored his ongoing emphasis on pragmatic, experience-based politics over ideological extremes.

Political positions

Fiscal conservatism and economic policy

As governor of Utah from 2005 to 2009, Jon Huntsman Jr. emphasized fiscal restraint, delivering balanced budgets annually while navigating economic challenges including the 2008 recession. He signed legislation in 2007 enacting the largest tax cut in state history, which reduced income tax rates for all taxpayers and consolidated the bracket structure from five to two levels, though not achieving a single flat rate as sometimes claimed. During a $272 million revenue shortfall in 2008, Huntsman negotiated spending reductions with legislators, including cuts to state operations and programs, to maintain balance without raising taxes. Under his administration, Utah recorded the nation's highest job growth rate from 2005 to 2008, with unemployment remaining below the national average at 2.4% by mid-2007. Huntsman's economic approach drew criticism from fiscal conservatives for selective spending increases, particularly in and , which the attributed to insufficient overall restraint despite tax relief. Nonetheless, the state built a rainy day fund exceeding $250 million by 2008, reflecting preparation for downturns through surplus management rather than borrowing. In his 2012 Republican presidential campaign, Huntsman advocated federal fiscal reforms including a to enforce discipline akin to state-level practices, criticizing congressional inaction on debt as lacking leadership. He proposed simplifying the tax code toward a consumption-based system to promote savings and investment, while opposing extensions of Bush-era tax cuts without offsets, positioning himself as prioritizing long-term solvency over short-term relief. Huntsman uniquely endorsed the 2011 bipartisan budget deal among GOP candidates, viewing it as a pragmatic step toward deficit reduction through targeted spending caps, though this stance alienated some party activists favoring deeper immediate cuts.

Foreign policy realism

Huntsman has characterized his foreign policy approach as realist, prioritizing the advancement of U.S. national interests through pragmatic power balances, deterrence, and selective engagement rather than ideological interventions or moral crusades. This orientation draws from his , including as U.S. to from August 2009 to April 2011 and to from October 2017 to October 2019, where he emphasized empirical assessments of adversaries' capabilities over optimistic assumptions about democratic transformations. In a 2011 foreign policy outline, he advocated rebuilding U.S. military strength to reestablish deterrence, modernizing alliances in the to counter rising powers, and avoiding overextension in regions like the , as evidenced by his opposition to U.S. military involvement in that year, arguing it diverted resources from core strategic priorities. Central to Huntsman's realism is a clear-eyed view of as a strategic competitor whose economic and military ascent imposes structural stresses on U.S. primacy, necessitating judicious competition over confrontation or naive partnership. During his ambassadorship in , he facilitated high-level dialogues while privately acknowledging the limits of U.S. leverage against an evolving authoritarian system under leaders like , warning in 2021 that had shifted toward with diminishing internal dissent and that America must realistically calibrate responses to its trade imbalances, technological theft, and territorial assertions. He has critiqued both hawkish decoupling fantasies and engagement illusions, instead promoting targeted economic decoupling in critical sectors like semiconductors and rare earths, alongside multilateral alliances to enforce rules-based norms, reflecting a causal understanding that unchecked Chinese dominance erodes U.S. influence without balanced countermeasures. On Russia, Huntsman's realist lens similarly stresses deterrence through strength amid Moscow's revanchist actions, informed by his tenure navigating U.S.-Russia tensions post-Crimea annexation. He resigned as in 2019 citing frustrations with inconsistent Trump administration policies but maintained that effective strategy requires consistent military posture, to undermine Russian leverage, and avoidance of escalation traps, rather than personal alone. This approach extends to broader principles: in 2012 campaign , he described himself as a "realist" who recognizes the interplay of domestic fiscal health and global projection, arguing that U.S. overcommitments abroad—such as prolonged engagements—undermine the economic foundations needed for sustained . Critics from neoconservative circles have labeled this moderation insufficiently confrontational, yet Huntsman's record underscores a preference for verifiable outcomes over doctrinal purity, as seen in his push for Asia-focused to address the Indo-Pacific's power dynamics.

Social and cultural issues

Huntsman maintains pro-life positions, advocating for a to life amendment during his 2012 presidential campaign. As governor, he emphasized his conservative record on at events targeting social conservatives, including the 2011 Conference. In a July 2011 campaign statement, he invoked biblical principles to underscore the sanctity of life, drawing from his Mormon upbringing. Regarding same-sex marriage, Huntsman initially supported civil unions as an alternative to redefining traditional marriage. In February 2009, as governor, he publicly endorsed civil unions alongside equal rights protections for gay and lesbian couples, a stance that contrasted with Utah's prevailing opposition to such measures. By February 2013, following his presidential bid, he shifted to full support for gay marriage, describing it as "the right thing to do" in an op-ed and signing an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to recognize it nationally; he called on conservatives to lead this change to align with principles of limited government and individual liberty. Huntsman is a staunch defender of Second Amendment rights, having passed the qualifying tests for a concealed weapons permit during his gubernatorial campaign and publicly affirming his commitment to protections. In July 2011, while launching his presidential effort in , he quipped about his surname to underscore personal alignment with firearm rights, rejecting expansions.

Healthcare and regulatory views

During his tenure as Utah governor from 2005 to 2009, Huntsman pursued market-oriented reforms to expand access without imposing individual or employer mandates. In 2007, he enacted the Health System Reform Initiative, which promoted consumer-driven plans such as portable policies funded with pre-tax dollars, reimbursement arrangements, and transparency tools including an online exchange for comparing policies. This approach targeted the state's approximately 300,000 uninsured residents, particularly low-wage workers and small businesses, by emphasizing personal responsibility and competition among insurers rather than government compulsion. The reforms established Utah's exchange in 2008, which increased enrollment among small employers and reached some previously uninsured individuals through voluntary mechanisms. In his 2012 Republican presidential campaign, Huntsman pledged to repeal the (ACA) entirely on his first day in office, decrying its and regulatory expansions as unconstitutional overreach that stifled innovation and raised costs. He contrasted this with Utah's model, advocating nationwide reforms centered on catastrophic coverage, interstate insurance sales, malpractice , and eliminating employer-based tax exclusions to foster portability and affordability without federal mandates. Although he had floated the idea of mandates for children's health coverage in a 2007 state address—likening it to auto insurance requirements—Huntsman later rejected them, citing evidence that market incentives proved more effective in . On broader regulatory issues, Huntsman consistently favored reducing government-imposed burdens to stimulate economic activity, viewing excessive rules as barriers to formation and job growth. As , under his leadership maintained a low-regulatory environment that contributed to strong economic performance, including tax simplifications and streamlined permitting processes aligned with pro-market principles. In national debates, he endorsed alongside tax cuts as essential for recovery, particularly criticizing federal overregulation in sectors like and that he argued distorted markets and hindered competitiveness. Huntsman applied this stance to , opposing ACA provisions that layered new administrative requirements on providers and insurers, which he contended exacerbated without improving outcomes.

Controversies and criticisms

Internal campaign disputes

During Jon Huntsman Jr.'s 2012 Republican presidential campaign, internal tensions escalated into public view in August 2011, centered on disputes involving chief strategist John Weaver. Weaver's management approach, characterized by micromanaging and reported verbal confrontations, alienated several staff members, leading to an exodus that included key departures in June and July 2011. Campaign manager Susie Wiles resigned on July 21, 2011, less than one month after the campaign's official launch on June 21, 2011; she was replaced by communications director Matt David, with aides framing the exit as a planned transition to enable a more aggressive strategy rather than a firing. Earlier, in June 2011, advance head Spencer Geissinger and scheduler Alysia Barzee quit amid conflicts with Weaver, while senior adviser David Fischer departed after Weaver requested his removal from operations duties. Finance director Kevin Curran's exit at the end of July 2011 was described as unrelated to the Weaver factionalism. The feuds pitted Weaver loyalists against opponents, including family associates like , with underlying causes tied to strategic disagreements and early organizational disarray; Huntsman's father, , and wife, , reportedly voiced concerns over Weaver's influence. A detailed August 4, 2011, report amplified the strife, prompting Huntsman to address it during a New Hampshire event, where he acknowledged the distraction but emphasized forward momentum, stating, "I look forward to a future of less drama, more money and increasing contrasts with my opponents." These personnel shakeups occurred as the campaign struggled with low polling and —raising about $4 million compared to rival Mitt Romney's $18 million—exacerbating perceptions of amid broader strategic debates over Huntsman's positioning as a moderate alternative in the GOP primary. No comparable internal disputes were publicly documented in Huntsman's later 2020 U.S. campaign in , which focused more on external challenges like the pandemic's impact on in-person events.

Party loyalty and Trump opposition

Huntsman has faced scrutiny from conservative factions within the Republican Party for demonstrating flexible allegiance, exemplified by his acceptance of the U.S. ambassadorship to under Democratic President from April 2009 to April 2011. As a prominent Republican who had just completed two terms as , Huntsman defended the bipartisan appointment as a matter of over partisan lines, stating he had "no regrets" despite it potentially complicating his subsequent presidential ambitions against Obama. Critics, including some GOP primary opponents and commentators, argued this collaboration with a Democratic administration undermined party unity and diluted Republican opposition to Obama's policies, though Huntsman countered that his criticisms of Obama's economic record predated and continued after the role. His relationship with Donald Trump highlighted further tensions between personal judgment and party expectations. Initially voicing "concerns" about Trump during the 2016 primaries, Huntsman endorsed him on May 2, 2016, emphasizing the need to form a "winning coalition" and end intra-party strife, and subsequently accepted Trump's nomination as ambassador to Russia, serving from October 2017 to October 2019. During this tenure, he navigated administration policies while privately disagreeing on issues like trade and foreign relations, yet publicly aligned on key diplomatic fronts. However, Huntsman's post-service stance shifted markedly; in October 2019, he described the push for Trump's first impeachment as a "rush" that would leave "lasting scars" on the nation and exacerbate divisions. The January 6, 2021, Capitol riot intensified perceptions of Huntsman's disloyalty among Trump loyalists. On January 7, 2021, he publicly condemned Trump for elevating "self-interest above the national interest," arguing the events demanded accountability beyond party lines and contributing to a broader Republican splintering over Trump's leadership. This position drew backlash from pro-Trump conservatives who viewed it as , especially given Huntsman's prior endorsement and service, framing him as prioritizing institutional norms over electoral . By 2023, his advocacy for third-party alternatives via —appearing alongside Democrat to promote centrist coalitions—amplified accusations of abandoning Republican orthodoxy amid ongoing intraparty polarization.

Policy inconsistencies and public statements

As governor of Utah, Huntsman signed the state into the Western Regional Climate Initiative in 2007, a cap-and-trade program aimed at reducing , and appeared in a television advertisement alongside California Governor promoting market-based solutions to . During his 2012 presidential campaign, however, he described cap-and-trade as a failed policy, stating it had not achieved its goals and was inconsistent with economic realities post-2008 . Huntsman attributed his earlier support to a period when "everyone was doing it" among Western governors, but emphasized opposition to a federal cap-and-trade system, arguing it would impose undue regulatory burdens. This shift aligned with broader Republican skepticism toward climate regulations during the campaign, though Huntsman maintained belief in human-caused climate impacts while rejecting aggressive mitigation mandates. On healthcare, Huntsman oversaw Utah's 2007 Health Reform Project, which incentivized individuals to purchase through credits and savings accounts, with state requiring employers to offer coverage options and promoting personal responsibility mechanisms akin to mandates. He expressed comfort with the concept of an at the state level to address uninsured rates, which stood at about 10% in during his tenure. In his 2012 presidential bid, Huntsman campaigned against any federal , releasing a plan for reform without compulsion and clarifying that Utah's approach avoided outright mandates, focusing instead on market-driven incentives and . Critics, including political analysts, highlighted the as a distinction between state experimentation and national policy, but noted similarities to elements later enshrined in the , which Huntsman vowed to repeal. Huntsman's public statements on Donald Trump evolved amid his diplomatic service and post-ambassador commentary. In January 2016, he praised Trump and for representing a "problem-solving" shift in Republican paradigms, suggesting openness to unconventional leadership. Appointed U.S. Ambassador to in 2017, Huntsman resigned in October 2019 following Trump's impeachment over the call, later stating in interviews that the administration's had devolved into chaos. After the , 2021, Capitol events, he publicly condemned Trump for prioritizing personal interests over national stability, calling for accountability and describing the former president's actions as undermining democratic institutions. These statements contrasted with his earlier service under Trump, drawing criticism from party loyalists who viewed the progression as opportunistic distancing from a polarizing figure.

Personal life

Family dynamics

Jon Huntsman Jr. is the eldest of nine children born to and Karen Haight Huntsman, with the family exhibiting strong cohesion rooted in shared entrepreneurial values and . His father, a self-made billionaire who founded , exerted significant influence as a patriarchal figure, instilling discipline and business acumen across the siblings, though Huntsman Jr. diverged toward rather than corporate leadership. Siblings including Peter (CEO of Huntsman Corp.), Paul (head of family investments), and others have largely perpetuated the family's and charitable endeavors, reflecting a dynamic of mutual support without public conflicts. Huntsman Jr. married Mary Kaye Cooper in 1983, and they have raised seven children together, emphasizing family involvement in his political campaigns and public life. The couple's partnership has been marked by Mary Kaye's active role in community service and support during Huntsman Jr.'s gubernatorial and ambassadorial tenures, including relocations abroad. Their children, including daughters Abby (a former television host) and others who publicly advocated for their father's 2012 presidential bid via social media, illustrate a dynamic of familial political engagement aligned with Mormon cultural norms of large, service-oriented households. This structure underscores intergenerational continuity in public commitment, tempered by individual pursuits.

Religious convictions and practices

Jon Huntsman Jr. was raised in a devout family within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with his father, , known for substantial contributions and aligned with church values. As a young man, Huntsman fulfilled the church's expectation for male members by serving a two-year proselytizing mission in from 1979 to 1981, during which he mastered and , skills that later advanced his diplomatic career. Huntsman has consistently identified publicly as a Mormon, stating in a , "I am Mormon," and expressing pride in his faith's heritage amid its diversity. However, he has described his relationship to the church as ambiguous, noting in the same year that formal membership is "tough to define" due to "varying degrees" of adherence, and positioning himself as "a very spiritual person... proud of my Mormon " rather than strictly religious. He attributed this to familial influences spanning "saloon keepers and proselytizers," and indicated deriving "satisfaction from many different types of religions and philosophies." Indicators of limited orthodox practice include his sons' decision not to serve missions—a customary rite for devout LDS families—and his children's attendance at Catholic schools, with adopted daughters raised exposed to Hindu and Buddhist traditions through their biological backgrounds. A spokesman confirmed Huntsman's ongoing in 2011, but observers have characterized his approach as cultural or "soft" , diverging from stricter adherence seen in figures like . No public records detail temple worthiness or regular participation, and post-2012 statements on personal practices remain scarce.

Electoral history

Gubernatorial races


Jon Huntsman Jr. entered the 2004 Utah gubernatorial race as a political newcomer, securing the Republican nomination in the primary election held on June 22, 2004, by defeating incumbent Governor Olene Walker, Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, and other contenders. In the general election on November 2, 2004, Huntsman defeated Democratic nominee Scott Matheson Jr., son of former Governor Scott M. Matheson, capturing 531,190 votes or 57.74% of the total. Matheson received approximately 41% of the vote, reflecting Utah's Republican lean but also a competitive race given the primary's intensity. Huntsman's campaign emphasized economic growth, education reform, and a no-new-taxes pledge, drawing on his business background and family wealth for self-funding.
YearElectionPartyCandidateVotesPercentage
2004GeneralRepublicanJon Huntsman Jr.531,19057.74%
2004GeneralDemocratic~377,000~41.03%
As incumbent, Huntsman faced no significant opposition in the 2008 Republican primary and won re-election on November 4, 2008, in a against Democratic nominee Bob Springmeyer, a longtime party activist. He secured 734,049 votes, or 77.63% of the total, while Springmeyer garnered 186,503 votes (19.72%). The victory margin reflected high approval ratings from initiatives like tax cuts and amid national financial turmoil.
YearElectionPartyCandidateVotesPercentage
2008GeneralRepublicanJon Huntsman Jr.734,04977.63%
2008GeneralDemocraticBob Springmeyer186,50319.72%
Huntsman resigned in 2009 to become U.S. Ambassador to China but later sought a non-consecutive third term in the 2020 election. He lost the Republican primary on June 30, 2020, to Lieutenant Governor Spencer Cox, conceding on July 6 after trailing in results. The primary contest highlighted intraparty divisions, with Huntsman positioning himself as a moderate experienced leader against Cox's conservative appeal.

Presidential primary performance

Jon Huntsman Jr. announced his candidacy for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination on June 21, 2011, at in , highlighting his executive experience as and diplomatic roles, including as U.S. to under President . His campaign adopted a strategy focused primarily on the primary, aiming to leverage the state's independent voters and moderate Republican electorate, while investing minimal resources in the . In the Iowa Republican caucuses on January 3, 2012, Huntsman received negligible support, securing just 468 votes or approximately 0.33% of the total. He fared better in on January 10, 2012, finishing third with 28,495 votes, representing about 17% of the vote share, trailing Mitt Romney's 39% and but ahead of . This result, while exceeding low pre-primary expectations, failed to provide the breakthrough needed to sustain momentum amid competition from more conservative rivals. Huntsman suspended his campaign on January 16, 2012, five days after the primary and before the vote, citing insufficient viability to continue effectively. He endorsed front-runner , stating that Romney offered the strongest chance to defeat Obama in the general election. Despite raising over $3 million in initial , the campaign struggled with low national and challenges appealing to the GOP base's conservative wing.

References

  1. https://historytogo.utah.gov/governors/
  2. https://history.state.gov/departmenthistory/people/huntsman-jon-m
  3. https://www.nti.org/about/people/jon-huntsman/
  4. https://archives.utah.gov/research/guides/governor-huntsman/
  5. https://www.nga.org/governor/jon-huntsman-2/
  6. https://2021-2025.state.gov/foreign-affairs-policy-board/
  7. https://ballotpedia.org/Jon_Huntsman_Jr.
  8. https://www.cnn.com/2012/01/15/politics/gop-campaign-wrap
  9. https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/feu/en/people/jon-m-huntsman-jr.html
  10. https://www.sltrib.com/news/business/2024/03/12/former-utah-governor-takes-top-job/
  11. https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-electoral-college-jon-huntsman-jr-b82283e5c04a1ce84b6194b089109850
  12. https://www.fox13now.com/2012/09/27/jon-huntsman-jr-says-his-party-has-changed-he-hasnt
  13. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/voice-vote-meet-jon-huntsman/story?id=14563408
  14. https://www.sltrib.com/news/2018/02/02/huntsmans-legacy-now-in-the-hands-of-his-eight-children/
  15. http://local.sltrib.com/jon_huntsman_sr_timeline/
  16. https://www.npr.org/2011/12/21/144012749/5-things-you-may-not-know-about-jon-huntsman
  17. https://www.ksl.com/article/16247322/i-am-mormon-huntsman-tells-national-media-outlets
  18. https://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/08/us/politics/08huntsman.html
  19. https://kutv.com/news/local/jon-m-huntsman-jr-background-and-timeline-of-career
  20. https://archive.sltrib.com/article.php?id=52071416&itype=cmsid
  21. https://home.dartmouth.edu/news/2011/06/leading-voices-lecturer-jon-huntsman-jr
  22. https://www.chevron.com/newsroom/2020/q3/jon-huntsman-jr-rejoins-chevrons-board-of-directors
  23. https://www.deseret.com/2018/8/28/20652129/aside-from-his-father-huntsman-jr-had-no-greater-mentor-than-mccain/
  24. https://www.ldsliving.com/jon-huntsmans-5-fs-of-success/s/82086
  25. https://www.cnn.com/2013/09/26/politics/jon-huntsman-fast-facts
  26. https://www.deseret.com/2001/5/15/19781289/huntsman-s-charity-sets-him-apart
  27. https://magazine.wharton.upenn.edu/issues/fall-1998/a-gift-from-the-heart/
  28. https://www.mastercardcenter.org/people/jon-huntsman-jr
  29. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-huntsman-8812b1ab
  30. https://www.thechurchnews.com/1993/6/5/23258304/ambassadors-term-brief-yet-notable/
  31. https://ustr.gov/archive/Document_Library/Press_Releases/2001/August/Senate_Confirms_Jon_Huntsman%2C_Jr_as_Deputy_United_States_Trade_Representative.html
  32. https://www.deseret.com/2004/3/9/19816528/huntsman-makes-bid-for-governorship-official/
  33. https://universe.byu.edu/2004/06/23/candidates-focus-on-platform/
  34. https://www.deseret.com/2004/10/4/19853662/differences-are-outlined-in-friendly-debate/
  35. https://uselectionatlas.org/RESULTS/state.php?fips=49&year=2004&f=0&off=5
  36. https://www.deseret.com/2004/11/3/19859414/huntsman-wins-governor-s-seat/
  37. https://archive.sltrib.com/article.php?id=52598654&itype=cmsid
  38. https://www.cachevalleydaily.com/news/local/tax-reform-defined-huntsman-s-governorship/article_243559bc-87f6-5cce-b162-137e144c8333.html
  39. https://www.ksl.com/article/721112/utah-faces-16-billion-budget-surplus-this-year
  40. https://gopb.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/2006BudgetRecommendations_Huntsman.pdf
  41. https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2012/jan/08/jon-huntsman/huntsman-repeats-claim-he-signed-flat-tax-led-nati/
  42. https://utahstatecapitol.utah.gov/governor-jon-m-huntsman/
  43. https://www.politifact.com/factchecks/2011/sep/08/jon-huntsman/jon-huntsman-says-utah-was-no-1-job-creation-when-/
  44. https://www.aei.org/politics-and-public-opinion/my-chat-with-gop-presidential-candidate-jon-huntsman/
  45. https://www.deseret.com/2011/5/28/20194676/tax-reform-defined-huntsman-s-governorship/
  46. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/huntsman-campaign-press-release-jon-taxes
  47. https://www.parkrecord.com/2005/12/17/huntsman-proposes-increase-in-education-spending/
  48. https://www.usu.edu/today/story/president-albrecht-and-gov-huntsman-celebrate-ustar-groundbreaking
  49. https://www.heritage.org/environment/commentary/n-power-fix-utah-energy-woes
  50. https://uselectionatlas.org/RESULTS/state.php?year=2008&fips=49&f=0&off=5&elect=0
  51. https://www.politico.com/story/2009/02/politico-interview-gov-huntsman-019181
  52. https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna32375204
  53. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/remarks-announcing-the-nomination-governor-jon-m-huntsman-jr-be-ambassador-china
  54. https://www.deseret.com/2009/8/8/20333301/u-s-senate-confirms-huntsman-as-ambassador-to-china/
  55. https://2009-2017.state.gov/p/eap/rls/rm/2009/08/128318.htm
  56. https://covid-19.chinadaily.com.cn/china///2009-11/21/content_9015515.htm
  57. https://editorials.voa.gov/a/huntsman-on-us-china-relations-85241312/1481704.html
  58. https://www.politico.com/story/2011/02/spotted-huntsman-flees-china-rally-050077
  59. https://www.deseret.com/2011/2/25/20369729/video-of-huntsman-at-china-protest-sparks-speculation/
  60. https://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/07/world/asia/07china.html
  61. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-12331130
  62. https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704254304576116713501632254
  63. https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2017/07/19/538035020/trump-picks-jon-huntsman-to-be-u-s-ambassador-to-russia
  64. https://www.deseret.com/2017/9/28/20620507/full-senate-confirms-jon-huntsman-jr-as-u-s-ambassador-to-russia/
  65. https://www.politico.com/story/2017/09/28/jon-huntsman-russia-ambassador-senate-confirms-243272
  66. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/06/world/europe/huntsman-ambassador-russia.html
  67. https://theworld.org/stories/2019/05/01/ambassador-huntsman-us-russia-estrangement-has-gone-too-long
  68. https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/jon-huntsman-stepping-down-as-u-s-ambassador-to-russia
  69. https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2019/10/08/former-us-ambassador-jon/
  70. https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna43477575
  71. https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2012/1/2/huntsman-stakes-bid-on-new-hampshire-primary
  72. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2012-01-04/iowa-republican-result-muddled-as-fractured-party-fails-to-unite
  73. https://www.bostonglobe.com/news/politics/2012/01/03/jon-huntsman-sharpens-critique-mitt-romney/7UGPq1rjDugqi8cVEGyQ6O/story.html
  74. https://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/11/us/politics/new-hampshire-vote-seen-as-gauge-as-rivals-try-to-slow-romney.html
  75. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-16583218
  76. https://www.npr.org/2012/01/16/145297317/unable-to-gain-traction-jon-huntsman-drops-out
  77. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/jan/16/jon-huntsman-withdraws-republican-presidential
  78. https://www.ksl.com/article/46660175/former-utah-gov-jon-huntsman-jr-close-to-decision-on-another-run
  79. https://www.politico.com/news/2019/11/14/jon-huntsman-launches-another-run-for-utah-governor-070899
  80. https://kutv.com/news/local/huntsman-announces-2020-run-for-governor-says-growth-is-biggest-issue-facing-utah
  81. https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2020/6/12/21288398/utah-gop-jon-huntsman-jr-governor-election-primaries-gubernatorial-ambassador/
  82. https://www.sltrib.com/news/2019/11/14/trib-talk-jon-huntsman/
  83. https://www.abc4.com/news/politics/jon-huntsman-jr-announces-provo-mayor-kaufusi-as-running-mate/
  84. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/06/us/politics/spencer-cox-jon-huntsman-utah.html
  85. https://www.politico.com/news/2020/06/29/huntsman-at-risk-of-shocking-defeat-in-utah-345124
  86. https://www.ksl.com/article/46771737/cox-holds-narrow-edge-over-huntsman-in-utah-gop-gubernatorial-primary
  87. https://kutv.com/news/local/less-than-10000-votes-separate-spencer-cox-and-jon-huntsman-in-gubernatorial-primary
  88. https://www.cnn.com/2020/07/06/politics/jon-huntsman-concedes-utah-governor-gop-primary-spencer-cox
  89. https://www.deseret.com/utah/2020/7/7/21316103/governors-race-jon-huntsman-jr-what-went-wrong-spencer-cox-third-run/
  90. https://www.abc4.com/news/politics/as-time-runs-out-supporters-push-jon-huntsman-jr-to-pursue-write-in-candidacy/
  91. https://www.deseret.com/utah/2020/7/13/21322903/huntsman-says-he-wont-run-as-write-in-candidate/
  92. https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2020/08/28/huntsman-wont-run-write/
  93. https://www.chevron.com/who-we-are/leadership/jon-huntsman
  94. https://familybusinessmagazine.com/uncategorized/jon-huntsman-jr-named-to-advisor-post-at-his-family-firm/
  95. https://www.detroitnews.com/story/business/autos/ford/2021/04/14/huntsman-serve-advisor-top-ford-executives-expanded-role/7228062002/
  96. https://corporate.ford.com/about/leadership.html
  97. https://www.mastercard.com/us/en/news-and-trends/press/executive-bios/jon-huntsman.html
  98. https://www.fox13now.com/news/election-2020/jon-huntsman-jr-makes-it-official-no-write-in-campaign
  99. https://www.ksl.com/article/50688201/jon-huntsman-jr-may-support-a-third-party-for-president-says-hes-not-eyeing-vp-role
  100. https://www.parkrecord.com/2023/07/31/speculation-abounds-about-jon-huntsman-jr-on-no-labels-presidential-ticket/
  101. https://www.deseret.com/2023/11/14/23951095/jon-huntsman-jr-no-labels-president/
  102. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/04/04/no-labels-no-presidential-ticket/
  103. https://www.deseret.com/utah/2022/10/27/23423526/jon-huntsman-tulsi-gabbard-mike-lee-endorsement/
  104. https://www.politico.com/news/jon-huntsman
  105. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFJIC83SEoA
  106. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXI1ULdvFo4
  107. https://www.deseret.com/2008/9/26/20276943/huntsman-legislators-work-out-budget-deal/
  108. https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-WB-30379
  109. https://gopb.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/2007BudgetRecommendations.pdf
  110. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/huntsman-campaign-press-release-jon-huntsman-reiterates-his-support-for-balanced-budget
  111. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2011-08-20/huntsman-says-republican-white-house-rivals-showed-no-leadership-on-debt
  112. https://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/02/us/politics/02repubs.html
  113. https://foreignpolicy.com/2011/11/17/jon-huntsmans-foreign-policy/
  114. https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs-event/jon-huntsman-on-foreign-policy/262560
  115. https://www.deseret.com/utah/2021/3/17/22336479/utah-jon-huntsman-us-china-economic-competition-world-trade-center-foreign-policy-xi-jinping/
  116. https://www.riponsociety.org/article/anger-is-not-a-substitute-for-good-policy-a-qa-with-jon-huntsman/
  117. https://www.deseret.com/utah/2022/6/9/23161763/jon-huntsman-jr-on-how-to-navigate-chinas-rise-to-power-trade-imbalance-human-rights-business/
  118. https://www.ncuscr.org/video/cth-2022-jon-huntsman/
  119. https://www.nationalreview.com/2011/08/world-according-huntsman-elise-jordan/
  120. https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/huntsman-i-can-put-the-numbers-together-to-actually-win-in-2012
  121. https://nationalinterest.org/feature/who-jon-huntsman-19635
  122. https://www.ontheissues.org/2012/Jon_Huntsman_Abortion.htm
  123. https://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/164697-huntsman-plays-up-conservative-credentials-on-abortion/
  124. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/huntsman-campaign-press-release-jon-the-sanctity-life
  125. https://www.ontheissues.org/jon_huntsman.htm
  126. https://www.hrc.org/press-releases/utah-gov-huntsman-endorses-civil-unions-equal-rights-for-gay-and-lesbian-c
  127. https://www.deseret.com/2013/2/21/20514857/huntsman-backs-gay-marriage-calls-for-conservatives-to-push-issue/
  128. https://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/26/us/politics/prominent-republicans-sign-brief-in-support-of-gay-marriage.html
  129. https://www.ksl.com/article/31408900/same-sex-marriage-the-right-thing-to-do-huntsman-says
  130. https://www.deseret.com/2004/6/18/19835506/as-primary-approaches-school-gun-debate-lingers/
  131. https://www.deseret.com/2011/7/10/20374181/jon-huntsman-jr-revs-up-presidential-campaign-in-florida/
  132. https://www.deseret.com/2009/7/28/20331247/utah-s-health-care-reform-a-model-for-the-nation/
  133. https://ontheissues.org/Governor/Jon_Huntsman_Health_Care.htm
  134. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/huntsman-campaign-press-release-jon-healthcare-reform-without-mandate
  135. https://thehill.com/policy/finance/204333-despite-image-huntsmans-economic-agenda-leaned-right/
  136. https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/state/2011/09/14/gop-debaters-focus-on-tax/7283612007/
  137. https://www.politico.com/story/2011/08/inside-the-huntsman-drama-060641
  138. https://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/22/us/politics/22huntsman.html
  139. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/huntsman-tamps-down-report-of-campaign-strife/2011/08/04/gIQAVk3DvI_story.html
  140. https://www.politico.com/story/2011/01/huntsman-resigns-may-run-048533
  141. https://www.wnyc.org/story/211945-no-regrets-about-serving-obama-huntsman-says/
  142. https://thehill.com/blogs/ballot-box/gop-presidential-primary/165931-huntsman-says-obama-failed-on-the-economic-front/
  143. https://kutv.com/news/local/jon-huntsman-jr-endorses-trump-says-it-is-time-to-create-winning-coalition
  144. https://thehill.com/blogs/ballot-box/presidential-races/280805-jon-huntsman-i-have-concerns-about-trump/
  145. https://www.deseret.com/utah/2019/10/11/20910353/jon-huntsman-says-impeachment-is-divisive-leaves-lasting-scars-on-nation/
  146. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/07/us/politics/trump-republicans.html
  147. https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/andrewkaczynski/jon-huntsman-thought-cap-and-trade-was-awesome-bef
  148. https://www.politico.com/story/2011/05/huntsman-cap-and-trade-failed-054890
  149. https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/167925-huntsman-cap-and-trade-at-odds-with-todays-reality/
  150. https://science.time.com/2011/12/07/flip-flop-jon-huntsman-and-newt-gingrich-go-skeptical-on-climate-change/
  151. https://www.politico.com/story/2011/06/huntsman-a-health-reform-agnostic-057043
  152. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/health-care-and-presidential-politics/?share=print&nb=1
  153. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/huntsman-was-for-health-care-mandate_n_864838
  154. https://kutv.com/news/local/huntsman-says-problem-solving-trump-carson-introducing-a-new-party-paradigm
  155. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NR1iSCOT5U
  156. https://fortune.com/2010/07/05/the-huntsmans-inside-an-american-dynasty/
  157. https://kutv.com/news/local/huntsman-returns-to-utah
  158. https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/09/fashion/jon-huntsmans-daughters-tweet-for-dad.html
  159. https://www.deseret.com/indepth/2021/1/27/21564585/what-abby-huntsman-learned-from-time-on-the-view-utah-family-motherhood-politics/
  160. https://mormonwiki.com/Jon_Huntsman%2C_Sr.
  161. https://religionnews.com/2009/05/19/huntsman-learned-his-mandarin-for-mission/
  162. https://www.ksl.com/article/15513461/huntsman-says-his-mormon-church-membership-is-tough-to-define
  163. https://www.deseret.com/2011/5/13/20372359/huntsman-says-his-mormon-church-membership-is-tough-to-define/
  164. https://www.getreligion.org/getreligion/2011/08/is-jon-huntsman-a-jack-mormon
  165. https://www.saltlakecounty.gov/globalassets/1-site-files/clerk/niftic/contacts/historical-election-results/2004-06-22-primary-election.pdf?v=08242020123536
  166. https://centerforpolitics.org/crystalball/2008/governor/ut/
  167. https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/06/30/us/elections/results-utah-governor-primary-election.html
  168. https://www.politico.com/news/2020/07/06/huntsman-loses-gop-primary-in-utah-349958
  169. https://www.c-span.org/program/campaign-2012/jon-huntsman-presidential-campaign-announcement/254486
  170. https://fivethirtyeight.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/01/09/huntsman-has-momentum-but-he-lacks-time/
  171. https://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2012/jan/05/us-elections-2012-iowa-caucus-results
  172. https://www.cnn.com/2012/01/10/politics/new-hampshire-huntsman
  173. https://www.deseret.com/2012/1/11/20391571/jon-huntsman-third-place-finish-in-new-hampshire-primary-is-a-ticket-to-ride/
  174. https://fivethirtyeight.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/01/10/new-hampshire-primary-overview-and-forecast/
  175. https://www.politico.com/story/2012/01/huntsman-drops-out-backs-mitt-071475
  176. https://www.cnbc.com/2012/01/16/jon-huntsman-quits-gop-race-endorses-mitt-romney.html
  177. https://www.deseret.com/2012/1/16/20244833/jon-huntsman-jr-drops-out-of-presidential-race-endorses-mitt-romney/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.