STATEMENT: Boston Globe Endorses Huntsman!

The biggest-selling newspaper in the state Mitt Romney governed for four years has snubbed him and endorsed Jon Huntsman to be the GOP nominee. Huntsman has been bold where Romney has been cautious, and "rather than merely sketch out policies, he articulates goals and ideals," the Boston Globe writes, praising the former Utah governor's foreign policy credentials, ability to lead in a bipartisan spirit, and willingness to stand up to those in his party who "reject evolution and the science behind global warming." As governor, Romney—the only other "truly presidential" candidate in the race—showed "glimmers of the same qualities" Huntsman has, but those have disappeared on the campaign trail, writes the Globe, which endorsed John McCain in 2008.

Romney, the paper says, has been pushed in "unwanted directions" by the Tea Party and the religious right. "Jon Huntsman would be a better president," the Globe concludes. "But if he fails, he could still make Romney a better candidate."