We’ve seen several high–profile endorsements from governors past and present in the Republican presidential race this week.
And then there’s today’s. The New Hampshire Union-Leader reports former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge — the first-ever Secretary of Homeland Security — is throwing his good name and influence behind Jon Huntsman’s so far struggling campaign.
From the Union-Leader:
Ridge said Thursday that Huntsman’s experience as a governor, businessman and ambassador make him “uniquely qualified to lead America to a more secure, prosperous and competitive future. He has the experience we need to rebuild our nation’s economic foundation and reduce our crushing debt.
“I know Jon to be a serious, insightful leader who will bring together people from across the political spectrum to solve the many challenges we face, both at home and around the world.”
Ridge was a big deal back in 2000 when he was on the short-list for vice-presidential nominees. He endorsed John McCain in February of 2008 when McCain was kind of seen in the same way Huntsman is now — a smart guy with an uphill climb to win his party’s nomination. By then Ridge’s star had faded a bit after his tenure at DHS was perhaps best remembered for the economic stimulus it provided to the duct tape industry.
Ridge has been engaged in the 2012 cycle already — in July he told the Washington Times that Michele Bachmann didn’t have the experience to run for president and urged his party to nominate someone who would actually have a chance at defeating President Obama.
Perhaps not coincidentally, that argument seems to be a cornerstone of Huntsman’s campaign.
