Deseret News | Obama names Huntsman ambassador to China

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Obama names Huntsman ambassador to China

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steve | 5:17 a.m. May 16, 2009

Good riddance. He cares more about his career than Utah. To Bad we still don't have Gov. Walker. Now she cared about the people of Utah.

Recently Retired | 5:32 a.m. May 16, 2009

This is great news for a man who is very qualified to serve the United States interests in China. Governor Huntsman is an awesome individual and a genuine person. I look forward to the time he will spend in this new assignment.

Forget about his future political ambitions and watch as the man does as he always has, diligently serves the people he represents. I am confident that we will see a great deal accomplished by this man for America's benifit.

I must say though, that I will personally miss the man who stives to stay in touch with the people he serves. When was the last time you saw a Govenor standing on a street corner eating food from a street vendor? Say what you will about the man, but he loves Utah and it's people.

I personally would love the oportunity to speak with this man again and thank him personally for all he has done for Utah. No govenor can please everyone because people are seperated by imaginary polical party lines. Govenor Huntsman has never been afaid to walk across those lines and both give and take for the benifit of Utahns. GO JON!

IQ | 5:37 a.m. May 16, 2009

I for one am so glad for this change. Finally we can get back to a Republican governor. Huntsman was a moral flake who wouldn't say he wanted two queers to marry but thought they should just shack up and receive a benefit package for doing so. What kind of a person can claim to have values and condone these kinds of actions? It's pretty obvious-when you read all of these posts by the libs-that Huntsman has gone over to the dark side. Even Obama noticed.

Comments continue below

Interloper | 5:39 a.m. May 16, 2009

I believe President Obama is looking for a moderate Republican to add to his cabinet who is well-qualified for the position, and, does not have embarrassing baggage. (Sen. Judd Gregg's real reason for withdrawing was that a report of ethical misconduct was about to be released by his state's largest newspaper.) Gov. Huntsman more than meets those qualifications and brings relative youth and vigor to a very important role.

Dave | 6:17 a.m. May 16, 2009

Is the Energy Solutions offer to bail out the state still on the table?

Heard It Said: | 6:23 a.m. May 16, 2009

"A good leader is only as good as those he leads". IF, Gov. Huntsman was such a good leader, it was as a result of his ability to interpret what has been revealed about the future of Utah and Mortality, and 'concede' some values in order to affect some positive progress for all those who hold human values and AGENCY a #1 priority.

He was not elected to be Religious or non-religious Judge nor Counsel. He was elected as a result of his core belief, none of which, I do not believe have been compromised, that is an example of what a leader, in my book is, and I have realized that I would do well to follow, The Example, he has followed.

So, I suppose what I am trying to say is, though it may have disappointed me little when it appeared he was not representing me well on the surface, I will think of him as someone who, underneath it all acknowledged and conceded the ultimate decision-making authority and power to the Creator of us all and is doing what he can to propagate 'His Will' which is in fact unalterable.

The Shadow | 6:33 a.m. May 16, 2009

Obama proves again that that he is smarter than the average... He selects a man who is quite capable of being a very good ambassador to our number one trading partner and future military rival in the Pacific and eventually world wide. Fine move, Mr. President.

This is how bipartisanship works. We get the best to represent us. Obviously, Obama means it when he says he is looking out for America. I wonder how the far right and nut cases will play with this good news? Will Rush and Fox entertainment ackl. the obvious? That will interesting to watch.

Now what do the Chinese read in the tea leaves, my tea leaves this morning as a matter of fact. Well, they are honored by having someone who is fluent in one of their main languages, a former amb., and a businessman and politician. Mainland Chinese will be impressed. And so will those on Taiwan.

So kudos all the way around.

That Obama is a one smart guy. He makes America stronger and uses bipartisanship to get there. He will easily be re-elected in 2012.

The Shadow Knows.

proeducation | 6:38 a.m. May 16, 2009

Both Huntsman and Herbert are Voucher Whores. That's hardly what I'd call a moderate position, but I will say it's out of touch with the 60+% of Utahns who voted against this new government entitlement in 2007.

Our schools will definitely suffer far more under Herbert though because Huntsman is definitely committed to better education funding. Herbert is not.

indiana | 7:10 a.m. May 16, 2009

I have a few observations!

I like Gary Herbert for his conservatism. Maybe he will stand up now and fight for the rights of the State of Utah and not roll over for every environmentalist group withing a hundred miles of him. I think he is one who will hold true to the virtues and values that made Utah great. Maybe he will be the one to send a message of integrity to the nation and especially to this particular White House. Maybe he will stop the rampant giving away of Utah to the highest bidder.

Yep, in my view, this is a great thing for everyone, especially Utah.

Good choice. | 7:16 a.m. May 16, 2009

As a Utahn, I am disappoitned. Governot Huntsman has been an excellent governor and a great asset to this state (wish I could say the same about Herbert, but I can't). As an American, I am delighted. Governor Huntsman is extremely qualified to be Ambassador and will be a great asset to my country in this new position.

Congratulations Ambassador Huntsman, and kudos to President Obama for making this excellent choice for our new Ambassador to China.

Defend Marriage | 7:17 a.m. May 16, 2009

So Gov. Huntsman endorses domestic partnerships. Will he now endorse abortion and socialism to align himself with Barack Hussein Obama?

Big Pete | 7:20 a.m. May 16, 2009

Good riddance. Huntsman is the ultimate flip-flopper. A lightweight and a disappointment. He can't screw up China and I hope he doesn't mess with the US from there.

Kevin | 7:25 a.m. May 16, 2009

We're losing a great governor. I'm sorry this means he won't run for president in 2012.

Fan of Herbert | 7:32 a.m. May 16, 2009

Gary Herbert will do a fantastic job as Governor. I wanted him in the first place until Huntsman put him on his ticket. I can't think of a better leader. We're lucky to have a good, honest, hard working person taking over for Huntsman. This is all good news.

Oh Please | 7:40 a.m. May 16, 2009

Congratulations to Huntsman, but this is a blow to Utah. The only defense against the sick and singleminded conservative legislature is gone. Now we have Herbert. For joy.

Climate Change | 7:47 a.m. May 16, 2009

It is disappointing to see Huntsman leave right when Utah was becoming a pivitol player in the Western Climate Initiative. Huntsman's passion about curbing climate change and reducing carbon emissions, the main mission for his forthcoming China trip that was cancelled due to swine flu, I'm sure will be his priority in China, and from a national perspective, this is good. He, Obama, and Schwarzenegger see the economic opportunity and national security benefits for going the cleaner, domestic energy sources.

What's sad for Utah is that Herbert is likely to kowtow to the extremists in the Utah legislature, such as Mike Noel, that promote Utah's oil, gas, coal, and nuclear industries... all of which are losing steam in other parts of the nation. I'm sure there will be a call for Utah to exit the Western Climate Initiative so that instead of Utah being 'at the table' to negotiate how Utah will influence Western policy, Utah will be 'on the menu!'

Good-bye. . . | 7:53 a.m. May 16, 2009

to the worst adminstration in over 50 years! If the Utah public really understood how poorly Huntsman has overseen state government, they, too, would be happy to see him leave. . .

MarkS | 8:00 a.m. May 16, 2009

I wonder if this means AG Shurtleff will reconsider and run for Gov next hear--it certainly would be an easier proposition than unseating Bennett.

to anyomous | 8:07 a.m. May 16, 2009

As for saying that "Huntsman is a "liberal," you are absolutely correct in saying that Orrin Hatch is a liberal." Hatch ran as a conservative and has become increasingly more liberal in the kind of legislation he supports. What we need is term limits for all congressmen to get rid of the pork they hide in bills.

aztillie | 8:13 a.m. May 16, 2009

Obama always has an agenda! And it does not include the nation, except at it will benefit his narcisstic self promotion. What is the agenda here? All you Utah people need to look a little askance at this.

Dont let the door hit you | 8:20 a.m. May 16, 2009

At least for the interim we will have a real conseervative Republican in the Governor's office. It certainly wasn't silver spoon Jon boy.

Been there | 8:27 a.m. May 16, 2009

Congradulations to Gov Huntsman. I think he was tired of playing governor. Gary Herbert has been a good Lt. Governor and was a notible County Commissioner. Perhaps he should consider appointing Mike Jensen, former Salt Lake County Council Chair as the Lt. Governor. This combination would ensure Utah of establishing the conservitive ideals of smaller goverment

Yama | 8:36 a.m. May 16, 2009

Is our new gov the same Herbert who got a police officer fired because the officer had the temerity to issue a speeding ticket to him?

Ed Meyer | 8:42 a.m. May 16, 2009

Congratulations to Governor Huntsman. You were a very popular, if self serving, governor and you will do a great job serving America in China... perfect choice for us all. Re Lt. Gov Herbert, take time to know the man. He is a good, compassionate person who listens before making a decision. From my perspective, that is more important than dogma and idealogy. It is great to have a man of ethics leading our state.

colorado | 8:42 a.m. May 16, 2009

Thank you utah for this man..China is such an economic power they could destroy our economy, but who understands china and is the best man for the job??? your Gov..thank you for possibly saving our country from economic collapse..your neighbor to the east .....

Jo | 8:42 a.m. May 16, 2009

I am a former Utahn living in Texas. I can promise you that the Huntsman family is not known by anyone outside Utah. Even the LDS Church members here do not know who the Huntsman's are. Everyone knows who Mitt Romney is but Mr. Huntsman is an unknown. I believe what FDR once said, "Nothing in politics happens by chance."

Yama | 8:43 a.m. May 16, 2009

Is our new gov the same Herbert who had a police officer fired because the officer had the temerity to issue Herbert a speeding ticket?

Anonymous | 8:54 a.m. May 16, 2009

Right,
Levitt was pulled by Bush to serve the COUNTRY as Health and Human services sec. Walker took over. Huntsman was pulled out to serve THE COUNTRY as Amabassador to China.

Maybe, just maybe, were doing something right here in Utah by 'growing' skilled, educatued and good people who run for office? At least Huntman lives the values he professess, unlike others in the GOP who love the preacher mentalit of do as I say, not as I do.

John Wicks | 8:56 a.m. May 16, 2009

Great to see the bum go. Hope he remembers his hair dye.

CJ | 8:59 a.m. May 16, 2009

Why doesn't he just go all the way like Arlen Specter did and become a Democrat? He was well on his way before this happened anyway. Now at least we may get a real Republican as Governor.

Anonymous | 8:59 a.m. May 16, 2009

Maybe Huntsman can get a peak at Obamas birth certificate.......

change | 9:07 a.m. May 16, 2009

What better way is there to stop somebody's career than to ship them off to China? Obama is brilliant.

Brent Cole | 9:09 a.m. May 16, 2009

Let the adoration and royalty march begin for the Billionaire's boy. I am glad to see this major R I N O go.

Proven and Pleased | 9:09 a.m. May 16, 2009

I am incredibly happy - because I have been proven right by the fact that this only shows how truly liberal our governor has always been and I am pleased because he is leaving!

Anonymous | 9:09 a.m. May 16, 2009

Herbert is a bigot and hater. He walks in a shadow of Huntsman!

RW | 9:10 a.m. May 16, 2009

Though I'm a republican, I haven't always been impressed by the talents of Governor Huntsman, though I believe he's doing as good of a job as he can.

As far as his motives, I'll admit that as a human being like the rest of us, perhaps he has some that are selfish, as if he's jockeying for position.

But have you considered he might be answering the call of our president out of loyalty to his country? Consider that he may even be putting political aspirations aside to serve his country.

Perhaps that's "too naive" for some, but I think he has enough character that that is a distinct possibility. His "answer to the call" could very well be a sign of his sense of public service.

I just wanted to suggest this having read all the political analysis of why he was chosen and who it will (or will not) benefit. The picture isn't complete unless the higher virtues are at least examined.

Thanks for reading this.

Ernest T. Bass | 9:14 a.m. May 16, 2009

Huntsman has been the best Governor Utah has had since Matheson. We're going to miss him.

GOOD !! | 9:17 a.m. May 16, 2009

I'm not from Utah, but was so pleased about Gov Huntsman's nomination. ANYONE that can be an asset in China is wonderful. It definitely is one of the most important appointments in the U.S. government. Obviously, President Obama, has made a well-thought out decision for both countries.

Tom C. | 9:18 a.m. May 16, 2009

I always get a kick out of the "progressives" calling guys like Huntsman moderates. He looks moderate to them because he is so left leaning. To a believer in the constitution as invisioned by the founders, Huntsman is "out-of-the-park" enemy of the same. I believe he will be as comfortable in communist China as he is here. That being said, I hope he does a good job of protecting the interests of the United States of America while he is ambassador.

Observer | 9:22 a.m. May 16, 2009

for IQ @5:37
Your choice of disgusting no class language is indicative of your intellect. I am surprised you could even spell IQ. What an embarassment you must be to your friends. Gov. Huntsman will give Utah the positive image it needs to those who only associate Utah with people like you.

Glad Huntsman is Leaving | 9:23 a.m. May 16, 2009

I for one, am absolutely thrilled that "Johnny Silverspoon," (AKA Jon Huntsman is leaving). He is a clown, moron,and a "R.I.N.O". (Republican in Name Only)

He is not, and has never been a conservative.
To our departing governor, I say: "Don't let the door hit you in the backside!"
Dr. Booty

Sally | 9:26 a.m. May 16, 2009

I agree that Huntsman cares more about his career ..

HOWEVER!!, it is a great posting..China is soooo important and he will handle it better than most I can think of. The closest most of us will get to being posted as a career politician to China is ordering Chinese food on a regular basis..

He was born into privilege and has made the most of it, which is more than we can say for a lot of people born into his situation...He was put in that position for a reason.

To those whom much is given, much is expected.

To those that much is given, much is expected.

Good bye Mr. Governor: | 9:31 a.m. May 16, 2009

Utah's loss will be the nations gain. You were a refreshing light in Utah. I hope that it is not extinguished and we go back to the old guard ways.

Our President surely does select qualified people to fill positions.

Thank you.

LDS Democrat | 9:34 a.m. May 16, 2009

Whats interesting about these posts is that it appears that the neo conservative Republicans are saying good riddance, give us another neo con who thinks the way we do. The moderate Republicans and Democrats are sad to see someone go from Utah who is so balanced (at least from their perspective), but happy for the country. It seems that the neo cons are just sticking to their rigid ideological politics instead of seeing the value in this decision. Dear neo conservative Republicans, I urge you to think about the democratic values that are good, wholesome and exactly what Jesus would do without freaking out. Many excellent Latter Day Saints were and are progressive thinking Democrats, President Faust was; and Im pretty sure he made it back to God. You see, the important thing is that you dont have to give up on all the good in the Democratic party just because you dont believe in one or two things within that party. Im sure that if you really think about it there is at least one thing that you dont morally agree with in the Republican party.

Glad to be rid | 9:37 a.m. May 16, 2009

of Huntsman. He is an embarassment.

Bill | 9:39 a.m. May 16, 2009

This is a win-win for the State of Utah and for the country. The Chinese ambassadorship is crucial in the coming years, particularly as the USA is wallowing in debt and needs the Chinese to keep financing USA debt. Having an ambassador whom the Chi-coms will respect for his comparative conservatism (compared the the rest of the Obama administration) and for his knowledge of Mandarin, will play a crucial role in opening China to greater democracy, even as democracy is dwindling to socialism in the USA.

@True Perspective | 9:46 a.m. May 16, 2009

"a native Utahn who is capable of tolerance and progressive thinking who is selected by the first African-American president to be ambassador to a country that is crucial to the wellbeing of the U.S. and the world."

You're suggesting that America has become so pathetic that we are crucially dependent on another third world country.

All these things are a summation of what has been apparent for quite some time.

Huntsman is clearly a liberal one world elitist.

The majority of Utahn's who are slobbering over (worshipping) Huntsman, or for that matter any individual with prominence, lots of money, good teeth and good speaking skills, don't have a clue as to what the proper role of government is.

Utahn's are especially needy and want to be led by someone, even if it is by someone leading them down the road to indentured servitude. As long as he smiles and tells you it will be OK, Utah's on board. Leadership founded in principles, truth, and inspiration to become strong and decent individuals have been permanently blocked from their psyche.

The American identity is being usurped by one world elitists.

LDS Democrat | 9:50 a.m. May 16, 2009

Bad News | 9:53 a.m. May 16, 2009

Unless you like the Idea of Herbert being Governor. Gayle Ruzika and her Eagle Forum minions must be jumping for joy. Now at last they have a Governor who they can tell what to do. Get Ready for the Waddoups-Buttars Era to begin. Put those Zions Curtains back up resturant owners and everyone set your clocks back 30 years.

JW Morrison | 9:56 a.m. May 16, 2009

This is a political move on Obama's part, smart, but political. This way he can say that he is being bi-partisan without changing his agenda. Also, as many think that moderates are dead in the Republican party, this is a great play to get moderate Republicans to stay on Obama's side and out of the more conservative Republican camp. I think that Huntsman's political leanings are closer to Obama's with a couple of exceptions anyway.

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1 photo

Manuel Balce Ceneta, Associated Press

President Barack Obama announces the nomination of Utah Governor Jon Huntsman Jr., center, to U.S. Ambassador to China in the Diplomatic Room at the White House Saturday in Washington. At right is Huntsman's wife Mary Kaye.

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Obama names Huntsman ambassador to China