SALT LAKE CITY-Friday, Utah Republican Governor candidate Jon Huntsman Jr. announced he head earned the endorsement for this position by Utah Republican Senator Mike Lee.
Lee served as general counsel in the Huntsman Administration from 2005-2009 during his previous time as governor of the Beehive State.
Per a news release, Lee said he has a “longstanding policy of not endorsing candidates in Utah primary races,” but believed Huntsman warrants a “rare exception.”
Lee stated that in trying times, Huntsman has staunchly defended principals that are important to Utah Republicans.
Lee confirmed Huntsman supports local control of public lands and was against the “federal overreach” of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2002 and has consistently opposed abortion.
Huntsman is hoping for an Eleventh Hour surge onto the Republican primary ballot via the signature-gathering route in the Beehive State.
If Huntsman cannot make it there by April 13, he needs to be a top finisher at the state Republican convention April 25.
This convention will occur remotely, utilizing the Voatz app which has previously been tested in Utah County elections.
Ranked-choice voting is also to be used.
Candidates Thomas Wright and Utah Lieutenant Governor Spencer Cox have already qualified for the ballot via signature-gathering.
The other candidates, Salt Lake City Councilwoman Aimee Winder Newton, businessman Jeff Burningham, former Utah House speaker Greg Hughes, Jan Garbett, of Garbett Homes and businessman Jeff Christensen will attempt to make the ballot at the convention as well.
