Jon Huntsman’s Task in New Hampshire

http://swampland.time.com/2011/05/19/jon-huntsmans-new-hampshire-task/

Since returning from China, Jon Huntsman hasn’t done much beyond giving a commencement address, one interview and announcing that his campaign headquarters, should he run, would be based in Orlando, Florida. But he starts his foray into retail politics Thursday, kicking off a five-day tour of New Hampshire, which will include the typical visits to libraries, diners and the like.

Not nationally well-known to begin with, Huntsman has spent the last two years forbidden from any political activities in his capacity as ambassador and now faces the challenge of introducing himself to Republican voters and activists who, if anything, are only aware of his work for President Obama.

“The buzz around the state is that he worked for Obama and that’s all people know about him,” New Hampshire GOP operative told Chris Cillizza. “Only after he answers questions about his relationship with the President and his positions on Obama’s policies, and presuming Republicans are satisfied, can he begin developing connections with the state’s Republican activists, officials and voters.”

So, how will Huntsman distance himself from Obama and stake out a position in a Republican field uncomfortable with departures from party orthodoxy? “Huntsman will appeal to a broad spectrum of voters; he won’t be seen as a right-wing conservative. He is a strong conservative — the M-word doesn’t suit him at all,” adviser Richard Quinn told the Washington Post. The “M-word,” in case you were wondering, is “moderate.” It’s a sin just to say it.

No matter how his campaign attempts to spin it.