Politics

Huntsman felt betrayed by McCain’s endorsement of Romney

Alex Pappas Political Reporter
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Former Republican presidential candidate Jon Huntsman felt betrayed when Arizona Sen. John McCain endorsed Mitt Romney ahead of the crucial New Hampshire primary.

Interviewed for the new book “Inside the Circus” about his run for president, Huntsman discussed “the petty political betrayals” candidates face.

His wife, Mary Kaye, called it the “petty betrayal of a dear friend.”

Huntsman explained that he had endorsed McCain for president in 2008 against his political interests. McCain’s endorsement of Romney three days before the New Hampshire primary — a state Huntsman put all of his chips in — hurt.

The eBook reports that Huntsman sent McCain an email expressing his disappointment: “You know, for a guy who paid a huge price in my state to support you, the least you could have done — I don’t care if you support Romney, that’s great — but just to have given me the dignity of waiting until after the New Hampshire primary.”

McCain reportedly responded, saying: “I didn’t mean to offend. I hope your family is well.”

Huntsman, the former governor of Utah and ambassador to China, dropped out of the race after a poor finish in New Hampshire. (SEE ALSO: Romney ‘fastidiously’ cleans germs off gym equipment)

The Daily Caller obtained a copy of the new eBook, authored by Mike Allen and Evan Thomas, ahead of its Tuesday release.

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