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Jon Huntsman Jr.

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Jon Huntsman, Jr.
9th United States Ambassador to China
In office
August 11, 2009 – April 30, 2011
PresidentBarack Obama
Preceded byClark Randt
Succeeded byGary Locke (nominee)
16th Governor of Utah
In office
January 3, 2005 – August 11, 2009
LieutenantGary Herbert
Preceded byOlene Walker
Succeeded byGary Herbert
United States Ambassador to Singapore
In office
1992–1993
PresidentGeorge H. W. Bush
Preceded byRobert Orr
Succeeded byRalph Boyce
Personal details
Born (1960-03-26) March 26, 1960 (age 64)
Palo Alto, California
Political partyRepublican Party
SpouseMary Kaye Cooper[1]
ChildrenMary Anne Huntsman
Abigail Huntsman
Elizabeth Huntsman
Jon Huntsman III
William Huntsman
Gracie Mei Huntsman
Asha Bharati Huntsman
Alma materUniversity of Pennsylvania
Net worth$11–$74 million[2]

Jon Meade Huntsman, Jr. (born March 26, 1960) is an American politician, a Republican and diplomat. He is a former United States Ambassador to China and he previously served as the 16th Governor of Utah from 2005 until August 11, 2009, when he resigned during his second term in office to become Ambassador to China.[3] He's a joke. Not even Cicero caould beat Obama so what chance does Jon Huntsman have? He will most likely end up using Koch brother's money and will end up losing the election. But it'll be fun to watch the tea baggers loose though!

It has been widely speculated that Huntsman will seek the Republican nomination for the 2012 presidential election.[4][5][6]

Early life and education

Born in Palo Alto, California, Huntsman is the son of billionaire businessman and philanthropist Jon Huntsman of the Huntsman Corporation.[7] During the 1970s, he dropped out of high school and was the keyboard player in a rock band before eventually resuming his studies. He attended the University of Utah, where he became, like his father, a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. He received a bachelor's degree in International Politics from the University of Pennsylvania after transferring to that school.

He spent time in Taiwan as a Mormon missionary and speaks Standard Mandarin Chinese fluently.[8] He is also fluent in Taiwanese Hokkien (Minnan).[9]

Career

From 1987 to 1988, Huntsman and his family lived and worked in Taipei. After college, Huntsman worked as a White House staff assistant in the Reagan Administration. Under President George H.W. Bush, he was Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for trade development, commerce for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, as well as U.S. Ambassador to Singapore, the youngest U.S. Ambassador to serve in over 100 years.[10] He served as Deputy United States Trade Representative in the George W. Bush Administration.

In addition to his public service, Huntsman served as an executive for the Huntsman Corporation, the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, and CEO of Huntsman Family Holdings Company. Other organizations he has served include the Utah Opera, Envision Utah, the Coalition for Utah's Future, and KSL-TV's Family Now campaign.

In November 2004, Huntsman was elected Governor of Utah with 57% of the vote, defeating Democratic Party nominee Scott Matheson, Jr.[11] He was re-elected in November 2008 with 77.7% of the vote, defeating Democratic Party nominee Bob Springmeyer. Huntsman maintained extremely high approval ratings as Governor of Utah hitting 90% approval at times.[12] He left office with his approval ratings over 80%.[13][14][15]

During his tenure as governor, Utah was named the best managed state by the Pew Center on the States.[16] Following his term as governor, Utah was also named a top 3 state to do business in.[17] In 2010, Utah was awarded the prize as the best state in the country to do business in. [18]

At the 2008 Republican National Convention, Huntsman delivered a nominating speech for Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, the party's nominee for Vice President.[19]

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. Huntsman appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on July 23, 2009,[20] which favorably reported his nomination to the full Senate on August 4, 2009.[21] On August 7, 2009, the Senate unanimously confirmed Huntsman.[22] Huntsman resigned as Governor of Utah and was sworn in as Ambassador to China on August 11, 2009.[23]

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.[24] He submitted his letter of resignation for his post as Ambassador of China on 2 February 2011, which he will step down from on April 30, 2011, fueling speculation that he would run for office in the 2012 General Election.

On February 5, 2011, The Associated Press reported that Jon Huntsman was the target of China's internet policing in the wake of the 2010–2011 Middle East and North Africa protests, otherwise known as the "Jasmine Revolution".[25][26] A US-based Chinese-language news website called Boxun initiated the call for a "Chinese version of the Jasmine Revolution,"[27] including the same intended location for protests in Beijing where Jon Huntsman was captured on video which showed him walking into a crowded square where he was then confronted by an unidentified man who asked him "Hi, Ambassador, what are you doing here?", to which Ambassador Huntsman replied "I'm just here to look around", after which the unidentified man then asked "do you want to see chaos in China?", to which Jon Huntsman appears to answer "no",[28] and proceeded to walk away with what appears to be his small entourage of at least one woman and two men, after the unidentified man started calling attention to the Ambassador's presence.[29][30][31] According to US Embassy spokesman Richard Buangan, Jon Huntsman strolled privately with his family, coincidentally at the protest venue in Beijing and "realized what was going on and immediately left".[32] Other US news sources also explain that Jon Huntsman and his family strolled through coincidentally at the protest venue in Beijing among 200 Chinese strollers. This Sunday walk became known as 'The Huntsman Walk', an expression first used by the 'New Yorker'.[33][34][35][36]

Personal

Huntsman's maternal grandfather David B. Haight was an Apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, of which Huntsman and his family are also members.[37] Huntsman has eight brothers and sisters and over 60 nieces and nephews on his side of the family.

Huntsman is a seventh-generation Utahn; his wife Mary Kaye Cooper is a first-generation Utahn. Together they have seven children: Mary Anne (b. 1985), Abigail (b. 1986), Elizabeth (b. 1989), Jon III (b. 1991), William (b. 1993), Gracie Mei (b. 1999), who is adopted from China, and another daughter from India, Asha Bharati (b. 2006).

Huntsman is also a self-proclaimed fan of the progressive rock genre and on July 30, 2007, attended a concert by progressive metal band Dream Theater. Later that day, Huntsman signed a proclamation creating "Dream Theater Day" on that date for the state of Utah. According to Dream Theater's website, Huntsman is a keyboard player. Huntsman also joined REO Speedwagon on the piano for two songs during their concert at the Utah State Fair on September 16, 2005.

Huntsman is a huge enthusiast and fan of riding motocross, which helped in pushing outdoor sporting activities and outdoor tourism for the State of Utah.[38] From 2006 to 2010, hotel tax revenues shot up 17 percent and the state enjoyed record numbers of visitors for their best ski seasons ever.[39]

Huntsman has been awarded six honorary doctorate degrees.[40]

Political views

Huntsman speaking at the World Economic Forum in Dalian, China in 2009.

Huntsman is a Republican, with conservative fiscal credentials and conservative to moderate positions on some social issues. He has been described as "a conservative technocrat-optimist with moderate positions who was willing to work substantively with President Barack Obama."[41] As governor, Huntsman listed economic development, health-care reform, education, and energy security as his top priorities. He oversaw large 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. He also proposed a plan to reform health-care, mainly through the private sector, by using tax breaks and negotiation to keep prices down.[42]

In a 2008 evaluation of state governors' fiscal policies, the 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, where he received the highest score on tax policy of all 50 governors. The report specifically highlighted his reductions of the sales tax and simplification of the tax code.[43] 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."[43]

On social issues, such as abortion and gun control, Huntsman generally holds more conservative positions.[citation needed] He defines his taxation policy as "business friendly".[44] Huntsman has spoken out against his own party over the failure of the Republican-controlled State Senate to confirm his nominee for the Utah Court of Appeals. The governor also sees Utah as being uncompetitive with the rest of the nation in terms of securing the best teachers.[45]

On foreign policy, 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" on human rights if confirmed. The governor, 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. He said that current US policy "supports this objective, and I have been encouraged by the recent relaxing of cross-strait tensions."[46]Huntsman is a strong supporter of Israel and has made several visits to Israel.[47]

Potential 2012 presidential bid

See also: United States presidential election, 2012

Huntsman's name appeared on lists of potential Republican nominees for the 2012 presidential election as early as 2008 and 2009,[48][49] and John McCain specifically mentioned Huntsman as a potential candidate for the 2012 election in March 2009.[50]

In August 2010, a group of political strategists close to Huntsman formed a political action committee now called "Horizon PAC" that could provide a framework for launching Huntsman's campaign. This PAC was formed in part to draft Huntsman into running for president.[51] On February 22, 2011, Horizon PAC launched its official website, which made no direct reference to Huntsman but stated that the PAC's mission is "to help elect a new generation of conservative candidates for local and state offices all across America."[52] The PAC's website also states that it "supports free-market values, principled leadership and a commitment to long-term solutions."[53]

A January 1, 2011, Newsweek article entitled "The Manchurian Candidate" featured an interview with Huntsman, in which he stated, "You know, I'm really focused on what we're doing in our current position. … But we won't do this forever, and I think we may have one final run left in our bones." Asked specifically whether he intended to run for president in 2012, he declined to comment.[54] The article generated significant speculation about a likely Huntsman 2012 presidential bid.[55]

On January 31, 2011, Huntsman submitted his formal resignation from his post as U.S. Ambassador to China, indicating his plans to return to the United States by May 2011. Both top Democrats and close associates of Huntsman have indicated that he is likely to explore a 2012 Republican presidential bid.[4][5][6]

Statistician Nate Silver wrote that: Huntsman faces some significant hurdles – his name recognition is not terribly high outside Washington and his home state, and if he cannot begin to concentrate on his campaign until May, he may not be able to put together a strong campaign team or raise enough money. Also, his having served in Barack Obama’s administration could make his positioning awkward on a number of levels.[56]

Notwithstanding these concerns, The New Republic reported that "despite the GOP’s rightward shift, Huntsman’s supporters think he has a strong shot in a run for the White House if he maintains his centrist positions."[57]

See also

References

  1. ^ "Mary Kaye Huntsman Instilling the power within". Davis County Clipper. 2005-04-30. Retrieved 2011-02-05.
  2. ^ Camia, Catalina (April 20, 2011). "Sizing up the wealth of Trump, Romney and Huntsman". USA Today.
  3. ^ "Huntsman resigns governor's office; Herbert sworn in", KSL-TV (2009-08-11).
  4. ^ a b Mike Allen (January 31, 2011). "Jon Huntsman resigns, may run". POLITICO. Retrieved January 31, 2011.
  5. ^ a b MJ Lee (January 31, 2011). "Gibbs confirms: Envoy is leaving". POLITICO. Retrieved January 31, 2011. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |coauthor= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  6. ^ a b Jonathan Martin (January 31, 2011). "Barack Obama braces for Jon Huntsman 2012 bid". POLITICO. Retrieved January 31, 2011. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |coauthor= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  7. ^ 2-Min. Bio: Jon Huntsman: Obama's Nominee for Ambassador to China
  8. ^ Utah's GOP Governor Chosen as China Envoy
  9. ^ Hoklo-speaking diplomat aims for realistic PRC ties
  10. ^ National Governors Association Profile
  11. ^ "Utah election results 2004". The Washington Post. November 24, 2004. {{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
  12. ^ Huntsman still popular despite civil unions flap
  13. ^ Huntsman, lawmakers' ratings sour
  14. ^ Are you ready for President Huntsman?
  15. ^ The Manchurian Candidate
  16. ^ The New Faces of the GOP New York Daily News May 11, 2009
  17. ^ Best states for business
  18. ^ The Best States for Business
  19. ^ Burns, Alexander (2011-02-03) When Huntsman hearted Palin, Politico
  20. ^ http://www.sltrib.com/ci_12877943
  21. ^ "AFP: Senate panel endorses Obama ambassadors to Japan, China". Google (AFP). 2009-08-04. Retrieved 2011-02-05.
  22. ^ "Hunstman nomination gets unanimous Senate confirmation". ABC 4.com. 2009-08-07. Retrieved 2011-02-05.
  23. ^ http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_13037539
  24. ^ "Embassy of the United States Beijing, China". Retrieved 2011-02-05.
  25. ^ "China's web police block US ambassador's name". CBS News. February 25, 2011.
  26. ^ http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/02/24/1557889/china-charges-subversion-for-protest.html?storylink=twt
  27. ^ China | Jasmine Revolution
  28. ^ YouTube - 'Jasmine Revolution in China'? Epic Fail! American Ambassador got owned(02.20.2011,Beijing)
  29. ^ Video of Huntsman at China protest sparks speculation | Deseret News
  30. ^ "LinkedIn working again in China amid protest calls". The Washington Post. February 26, 2011.
  31. ^ Jon Huntsman, U.S. Ambassador, Blocked By China's Web Police
  32. ^ Jon Huntsman, U.S. Ambassador To China, Spotted At Jasmine Revolution Protests In Beijing (VIDEO)
  33. ^ Hudson, John (23 February 2011). "Spotted: Jon Hunstman Goes Revolutionary Chic". The Atlantic Wire. Retrieved 28 February 2011.
  34. ^ "BBC 中文网 - 两岸三地 - “洪博培在茉莉花示威地点属巧合”". BBC News. Retrieved 28 February 2011. {{cite web}}: C1 control character in |title= at position 18 (help)
  35. ^ Lizza, Ryan (7 January 2009). "The Huntsman Walk". The New Yorker. Retrieved 28 February 2011.
  36. ^ Burr, Thomas (24 February 2011). "Huntsman at China rally – by accident". The Salt Lake Tribune. Retrieved 28 February 2011.
  37. ^ "The Ancestors of Jon Huntsman". Retrieved 2011-03-06.
  38. ^ Gov. Huntsman's 30-year Passion
  39. ^ Jon Huntsman: The Motocross Morman
  40. ^ "Embassy of the United States Beijing, China - Ambassador". 2009-08-11. Retrieved 2011-02-05.
  41. ^ Linkins, Jason (2011-02-11) Jon Huntsman Staff Choice Suggests The Direction His Campaign Will Take, Huffington Post
  42. ^ Parker, Kathleen (2009-07-26) [1],Washingtonpost.com
  43. ^ a b Chris Edward (October 20, 2008). "Fiscal Policy Report Card on America's Governors: 2008" (PDF). Cato Institute, Policy Analysis No. 624.
  44. ^ Jon Huntsman, OnTheIssues
  45. ^ Governor Jon Huntsman, Utah.gov
  46. ^ "Hoklo-speaking diplomat aims for realistic PRC ties". Taipei Times. Taipei Times. 2009-07-29.
  47. ^ Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman during his recent visit to Israel with AIFL
  48. ^ Cheney says GOP presidential bench still strong, CNN (June 29, 2009)
  49. ^ The Rising: Jon Huntsman Jr, "The Fix" blog, December 9, 2008, Washington Post
  50. ^ "McCain: Let's see who runs in 2012". wtop.com. Associated Press. 2009-03-29.
  51. ^ Lisa Riley Roche (January 31, 2011). "White House says Huntsman leaving ambassadorship". Deseret News. Retrieved January 31, 2011.
  52. ^ HPAC - Maybe someday we'll find a new generation of conservative leaders
  53. ^ Peter Hamby (February 22, 2011). "Pro-Huntsman effort launches website, offering 2012 clues". CNN. Retrieved February 22, 2011.
  54. ^ McKay Coppins (January 1, 2011). "The Manchurian Candidate". Newsweek. Retrieved January 31, 2011.
  55. ^ Jamshid Ghazi Askar (January 28, 2011). "Huntsman paves way for presidential bid". Deseret News. {{cite news}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)
  56. ^ Silver, Nate (2011-02-04) A Graphical Overview of the 2012 Republican Field, New York Times
  57. ^ Kilgore, Ed (2011-02-02) Does Huntsman Stand a Chance in 2012?, The New Republic
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Jon Huntsman.
Speeches
Articles
Political offices
Preceded by Governor of Utah
January 3, 2005 – August 11, 2009 		Succeeded by
Party political offices
Preceded by Republican Party nominee for Governor of Utah
2004, 2008 		Most recent
Diplomatic posts
Preceded by U.S. Ambassador to Singapore
1992 – 1993 		Succeeded by
Preceded by U.S. Ambassador to China
August 11, 2009 – April 30, 2011 		Succeeded by
TBD

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