Huntsman says he would likely skip Iowa caucuses

Former ambassador and GOP hopeful says his anti-ethanol position would hinder chances in the state

By Philip Elliott

Published June 5, 2011 4:42PM (EDT)

With his wife Mary Kaye at his side possible 2012 presidential hopeful, former Republican Gov. Jon Huntsman, Jr., of Utah shakes hands during a cultural festival at Heritage Park, Saturday, June 4, 2011 in Berlin, N.H. (AP Photo/Jim Cole) (AP)
With his wife Mary Kaye at his side possible 2012 presidential hopeful, former Republican Gov. Jon Huntsman, Jr., of Utah shakes hands during a cultural festival at Heritage Park, Saturday, June 4, 2011 in Berlin, N.H. (AP Photo/Jim Cole) (AP)

Potential Republican presidential contender Jon Huntsman says it's unlikely that he'll compete in Iowa's lead-off caucuses.

The former Utah governor and ambassador to China tells New Hampshire activists that he doesn't support subsidies for corn-based ethanol.

Huntsman says he won't waste time trying to win over Iowa voters who see support for ethanol subsidies is a way of life and a deal-breaker.

Huntsman is expected to join the GOP contest in the coming weeks and is treating New Hampshire as his launch.

He's not participating in a June 13 debate that many of his likely rivals will join.

Huntsman is in New Hampshire for a three-day swing introducing himself to voters who have the nation's first primary.


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