Governor questioned about McCain's running mate

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If there's a Republican to talk to right now, they'll certainly be asked to make a prediction about Sen. John McCain's choice for a running mate.

Utah Governor Jon Huntsman faced questioning about that during his monthly KUED news conference, which was taped today.

In fact, it was the very first question that was asked of Governor Huntsman today. He said he has no inside information as to McCain's choice, at least as of a few hours ago.

As you may recall, Governor Huntsman was one of McCain's early supporters. Huntsman officially endorsed him in July 2006, and that was before McCain had announced that he was running for president. Today, Huntsman said McCain's choice for a running mate will be a very personal decision.

He said, "I think it's one where chemistry really will matter in the end, the ability to get along with whoever the vice president is. I think he's been very outspoken in saying the primary qualification, as you can imagine, is the ability to assume the top position, heaven forbid anything should happen to John McCain if he's elected president."

The governor periodically campaigned with McCain during the primary, and the two also visited Iraq together. So these two men know each other well.

Governor Huntsman, by the way, will be one of the speakers during the Republican convention next week. He's scheduled to speak Tuesday evening.

E-mail: kmccord@ksl.com