It is just three years until the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary and some Republicans are quietly positioning themselves for a potential presidential run. These are the Republicans who have made moves to bolster a possible candidacy in 2012:
Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman: Huntsman surprised many earlier this week when he came out in favor of same-sex civil unions in an effort to establish his bona fides with moderates (at the same time he said that he is against gay marriage). He is likely betting that his path to the GOP nomination will be by telling the GOP base that he can attract moderate voters because of his moderate appeal.
Florida Gov. Charlie Crist: Took an unorthodox route last week in not only being a vocal supporter of the stimulus plan, but introducing President Obama at an event in Florida last week. He might be a little too moderate for the Republican base, but he is taking advantage of the lack of direction and leadership in the GOP.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty: Very quietly, Pawlenty traveled to a foreign security conference in Germany at the start of the month. He is looking to build his foreign policy credentials from the governor’s mansion.
Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal: Despite saying that he will not run in 2012 (as he is up for reelection in 2011 and it is not prudent to run for two offices at once), Jindal was chosen by the GOP to give the party’s response to President Obama’s upcoming address to a joint session of Congress, an opportunity that politicians covet.
South Dakota Sen. John Thune: While his presentation arguing against the stimulus package that featured a picture of $100 bills reaching 689 miles high was mocked by Republicans and Democrats (as well as some late night comedians), Thune is quietly building a platform for 2012, while gearing up for his 2010 reelection campaign. The bigger he is reelected by in 2010, the more serious a contender he can be in 2012.
Posted by JAlan 
Posted by JAlan 
Posted by JAlan 