Huntsman's McCain endorsement raises questions

Inquiring minds are demanding answers to more burning questions:

Why did Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. endorse John McCain for president instead of Mitt Romney?

Pignanelli: Despite all the grumbling from local Romney supporters, Huntsman's early endorsement of McCain was a logical — and shrewd — move. Utah Republican leaders have a track record of early support for presidential aspirants (Sen. Orrin Hatch for Gov. Ronald Reagan; Gov. Norm Bangerter for Vice President George Bush; Mike Leavitt for Gov. George W. Bush). Although despised by senatorial colleagues (not one endorsed him in 2000), McCain is a Westerner, a war hero and a Republican who oftentimes takes moderate stances. Huntsman's affection for him is understandable, including the fact that a McCain administration offers the best opportunities for the youngish governor.

Some detractors are accusing Huntsman of political gamesmanship because his father Jon Huntsman is supporting Romney, and Huntsman family members are major bipartisan donors on the federal level. Their contention is that Huntsman has "all the bases covered" no matter who wins in 2008. So what? Utahns certainly benefit if the chief executive has a link to the White House. Those who question Huntsman's agenda need reminding that an endorsement of McCain is child's play compared to Romney's political maneuverings. During his campaign for Massachusetts governor, Romney reached out to liberal Democrats with commercials featuring an endorsement from Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson. In an obvious quid pro quo, Rocky bombarded local airwaves with advertisements featuring Romney's promotion of the mayor. This is a textbook example of political expediency.

Then there is the annoying contention that Utahns owe fealty to Romney because he "saved" the 2002 Olympics from the antics of us hillbillies. While Romney provided strong guidance, locals quietly instituted the programs to reassure sponsors. Utah residents and community leaders deserve credit for the best Winter Games yet.