Jon Huntsman's Long Shot Bid for the White House in New Hampshire

Jon Huntsman is betting big on the New Hampshire primary to keep his presidential campaign alive. Having spent 68 days in the state and holding more than 150 events, Huntsman is counting on the state's anti-establishment sentiment to propel him to victory. Despite struggling in polls, with Mitt Romney leading at 41 percent and Huntsman trailing at 7 percent, Huntsman remains optimistic, pointing to two recent CNN polls that put him in strong third place at 13 percent.

Key Takeaways:

  • Huntsman has spent 68 days in New Hampshire, holding over 150 events in an effort to build support.
  • The candidate emphasizes the state's anti-establishment sentiment, suggesting that Mitt Romney's successes are not a reflection of the state's true values.
  • Huntsman points to recent polls, including a CNN poll that puts him in third place at 13 percent, to argue that he has a chance to exceed market expectations.
  • The candidate's central argument is that Romney is untrustworthy due to his shifting positions on key issues.
  • Huntsman emphasizes the importance of trust in this election cycle, suggesting that a trust deficit is as significant as the economic deficit.
  • The candidate committed to evaluating the entire defense budget, suggesting that even the Pentagon may need cuts.
  • Huntsman places a strong emphasis on international trade and economic issues, criticizing President Obama for being absent on these topics.
  • While acknowledging the significance of the Iowa caucuses, Huntsman suggests that New Hampshire can still play a key role in determining the Republican nominee.
  • If Huntsman were to become the Republican nominee, he would highlight the importance of improving Iowa's export markets to demonstrate his commitment to the state.

Statistics:

  • Huntsman has spent 68 days in New Hampshire, holding over 150 events.
  • 75% of Iowa caucus attendees did not want to take the establishment-recommended candidate, Gov. Romney.
  • A recent CNN poll put Huntsman in third place at 13 percent.
  • The President's new defense strategy aims to be leaner, meaner, and save a significant amount of money.

Sources:

  • "CNN Poll: Romney Steadily Leads in New Hampshire" - CNN
  • "Suffolk University Poll Shows Romney Leading in New Hampshire" - Suffolk University
  • Remarks by the President in the Pentagon Briefing Room (transcript) - White House (DATED January 5, 2012