November 17, 2008
Posted: 07:17 PM ET

From
 Huckabee's new book is out Tuesday.
Huckabee's new book is out Tuesday.

(CNN) — Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee appears to be settling scores with two Republicans he battled during his bid for the Republican presidential nomination.

According to Time Magazine, Huckabee takes shots at onetime rivals Mitt Romney and Fred Thompson in his new book hitting stores Tuesday, a move that is likely to fuel speculation that the former Arkansas governor still harbors White House ambitions.

On Romney, Huckabee sharply criticizes the former Massachusetts governor for shifting positions on key conservative issues shortly before he decided to run for the White House, saying his record was "anything but conservative until he changed the light bulbs in his chandelier in time to run for president."

Huckabee also lashes out at Romney for what he said was the former governor's refusal to offer congratulations when Huckabee was the surprise winner of the crucial Iowa caucuses in January. Many political observers say it was that loss that ultimately derailed Romney's bid for the Oval office.

“It’s hard to imagine Romney losing the GOP nomination after winning the Iowa caucuses,” notes CNN Senior Political Researcher Alan Silverleib. “Combine Romney’s deep pockets with the momentum of an Iowa win and a campaign shifting back to Romney’s home turf for the New Hampshire primary, and the most likely scenario is a Romney nomination by Super Tuesday.”

On Fred Thompson, the former senator and television actor who jumped into the Republican presidential race significantly later than the other candidates, Huckabee calls his campaign "amazingly lackluster."

"Fred Thompson never did grasp the dynamics of the race or the country, and his amazingly lackluster campaign reflected just how disconnected he was with the people, despite the anticipation and expectation that greeted his candidacy," Huckabee writes.

Filed under: Extra • Mike Huckabee • Mitt Romney


dan   November 18th, 2008 3:21 am ET

only in America the religion got a place in politic . We elected bush because of
his religion

nkc46   November 18th, 2008 12:29 am ET

i like mike. i'm an atheist and i've been turned of by politicians spouting religion before but mike seems different.

Jeff   November 18th, 2008 12:19 am ET

Geez the Obama loving CNN is still going! Come on – this was one page in a 250 page book!

Trust me – by 2010 – all the people above will be begging for the GOP – as Obama will be a disaster spending money like a drunk sailor

Rud, NY   November 18th, 2008 12:19 am ET

It doesn't seem particularly spiteful. His criticism of Romney sounds consistent with what other republicans said about him and he's right about Thompson, any pundit would agree with that he was a disappointment given the amount of hype surrounding his entry, and that he never seemed really knowledgeable about the issues. The Huckster's not settling old scores. If he wanted to settle old scores he'd send Chuck Norris, and you'd never hear about it.

Somewhere in Texas   November 18th, 2008 12:18 am ET

Huckabee needs to be quiet and go home like the rest of the Republican candidates that lost. As someone who tends to vote conservative for powers for government and fiscal spending, I think it's ridiculous for Huckabee to think he's the champion of conservatism. He spent just like Bush when he ran Arkansas. And the way he treated Romney solely because of his Mormon faith is flatly un-American. And then he blames people with libertarian views for costing the Reps the election on Hannity today. What an idiot. Get over yourself. We all have our values, but your religious agenda is not the same as conservatism. Stop trying to ram it down everyone's throat. And you wonder why people are turned off by the Republicans.

Alex   November 18th, 2008 12:18 am ET

All is fair in love and war and that ould include elections. I do like Huckabee though.

bob in LA   November 18th, 2008 12:16 am ET

Who cares? If he held that much weight , that his opinions or comments were valued, he would have been at least VP.
Fact is he wasn't the second man left standing, he was just the last to figure out that he lost!

Objective Mike   November 18th, 2008 12:15 am ET

Since when is offering OBJECTIVE thoughts based off one's personal experiences, in this case as Gov. Huckabee LIVED them, to be considered unbecoming of a Christian. Christians are allowed to have fight in them, too. In fact, in certain matters, they are instructed to protect and defend with all fervor. You people who gleefully chastize and ridicule people who have values rooted in Judeo-Christian principles are ignorant to the history of the very country in which you live. The values held by people like Gov. Huckabee are largely the same as those that were held by the likes of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and the list goes on. Other than that, I see your point — those evil Christian people and those commandment things they subscribe to — gosh, they're a real problem (sarcasm as rich as possible is implied). Get real and get informed, people. Don't just live for today.

chuck   November 18th, 2008 12:09 am ET

Huckabee and Romney,Two wasted politicians. I would call off recycling these two dummies.They are just like Rudy Gui—–the garbage face idiot.

Jon NY   November 18th, 2008 12:08 am ET

please let them all run again in four years, we will have another Obama victory.

DOCS 3   November 18th, 2008 12:03 am ET

IT IS NO WONDER S. PALIN HAS A CHANCE TO LEAD THIS DEFUNCT
PARTY. THEY ARE LIKE THE NEWS MEDIA AND THE REST OF THESE TALKING HERDS THAT FINALLY GOT A POLITICIAN THAT THEY CAN READ. I JUST HOPE THAT OBAMA KEERP THEM RUNNING AROUND LIKE CHICKENS WITH THEIR HEADS CUT OFF. THAT IS WHAT MAKES HIM STRONG.

BY THE WAY BLOGGER GARY. THE REALITY IS THAT WE REALLY BELIEVE THAT S. PALING AND HUCKABERRY FINING IS THE REAL DEAL. THE PROBLEM IS THAT WE HAVE NOT FIGURED OUT WHAT IS THE "DEAL". "ENQUIRER OR SITCOM" ONE RUN FOR A WEEK ON THE STORE SHELVES AND THE OTHER MAY RUN FOR A SEASON, BUT, EVENTUALLY BOTH GO AWAY. "WORD UP" ON THAT FACT (DEAL).

chuckles199   November 18th, 2008 12:01 am ET

who cares?

endlos endlos   November 17th, 2008 11:59 pm ET

Poor, poor liberal Democrats. How little it matters how little they know.

Lisa   November 17th, 2008 11:56 pm ET

Just confirms this is a party of mean spirited right wing zealots who are out of touch with real issues and would rather castigate each other.

KJL   November 17th, 2008 11:54 pm ET

You could dam the Colorado River if you piled up all the books that have been written by or about politicians in the last ten years. You could keep the homeless in San Francisco warm all winter if you incinerated them. Maybe there is a better use than reading material.

fred   November 17th, 2008 11:52 pm ET

Yeah, like that's all huckabee's book is about. Huckabee only ever speaks the truth, and these statements he said were all true.

zgomer   November 17th, 2008 11:46 pm ET

Hickabee stabbed Romney in the back in the WV primaries, he made a big deal of his LDS faith, so why is hillbilly Mike crying about! Nobody will read his book, so what does a weashed up old has been do…he cries! He still a gomer Pyle look a like and he is a pile of…!

fatherof5   November 17th, 2008 11:45 pm ET

Huckabee was an opportunistic spoiler, who marshalled the evagelicals to do just enough damage to Romney's bid to cause him to drop out. This book is another in a series of taking advantage of any possible shred of publicity he can get. Huckabee is a clown, certainly never had a possible chance at getting the nomination, but acting to spoil Romney's chances, giving us McCain who was destined to lose the election. It was clear a year ago, and it has played out. Now he has the nerve to take shots at Romney, who is by far the better man.

Terry   November 17th, 2008 11:35 pm ET

Between Sarah Palin and Mike Huckabee, I can not decide which one I would not vote for first. I liken both of them to an experience I had as a youth, "watching paint dry". If this is the future of the GOP – we are in for a long run of the Democrats Controlling the Senate, the House, and the White House. Where do old GOP wannabees go? Why to Fox News, of course!

Obama08 but...   November 17th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

Mike Huckabee could have EASILY given Obama a run for his money. How McCain and Romney were the top chosen is beyond me.

David   November 17th, 2008 11:32 pm ET

All that matters is that Obama is President! lol Foolish Reps.

ROCHELLE   November 17th, 2008 11:26 pm ET

Almost All of the Republicans are liers, cheaters and sore losers. They need to just stop the hate, racism, bigotry and help to bring America back in good stead again. After Bush, Palin, Mccain and the like messed it up

mrsb   November 17th, 2008 11:25 pm ET

Just what the Republican Party needs – another right winger who can tell us how to think and appeal to men over 50! I left the party when the religious nuts took it over. Wake up – there are women (most are pro-choice and don't want the government dictating their values), Latinos, African Americans and many young people who are now engaged in the political process! The Republicans have to regroup and not with a right winger leading the way! Can you spell inclusive?

Republicans also need to revisit what conservative means………not meddling in people's lives.

Steve   November 17th, 2008 11:23 pm ET

Let's be honest here. If it wasn't for Huckabee, Romney would have destroyed Obama in the general election.

Michael Ray Thompson   November 17th, 2008 11:22 pm ET

Wow! What do you know? CNN was wrong about all of these candidates. Unforturnatly, the Republicans chose their worst possible nominee and he lost to the worst possible President-elect this country has ever had.

Unshrub   November 17th, 2008 11:22 pm ET

The last thing we need running the government is a right wing religious nut trying to impose his views onto others.

Nija   November 17th, 2008 11:19 pm ET

This is the only man during republican debate that said let us be careful how we talk about Obama and today those idiots Romney, Guliane and Fred Thompson and just but a mire gusty wind.

KC   November 17th, 2008 11:14 pm ET

huhum, this is why I moved away from the Republican party.

Daniel from FL   November 17th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

Hmmm. And we thought we were not going to have any more juicy stuff to talk about now that the election is over. Watching the Republican party eat itself alive is going to be quite interesting indeed.

Phil Newton in Murphy, Oregon   November 17th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

Huck is the one Republican I might have considered voting for.

But with what we face as a country now, I say…THANK GOD FOR BARACK OBAMA!

meme   November 17th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

What's the G.O.P. again? There's nothing grand about this party. It's so over, they need to change their name. They truly look like a joke as if they've always been some sort of high school clique, and now they're all fighting for the top dog spot. Get it together Republicans, this is why you lost. You're a joke to this country, you have no values, the only value is how much something cost. You guys suck!

Annjell   November 17th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

I think the GOP is about to wither away. Hey Republicans, watch the Independents replace your party.
Gee, it's amazing, they bring Huckabee, reminds me of the show with the cop named Barney – "Why, golly Sarg." Thompson, a wanna be Reagan, and thinks he can win because other actors have won. And Palin, is she HIGH? I can't stand listening to her garbled speech and try to figure out exactly what she is saying. Imagine, she name her kids, trick, slick, tick, tock, or whatever, why'd she do that? She and hubby Todd have normal names, again, is she HIGH?

Independent voter   November 17th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

I truly believe that the republicans will be waiting for a long time before they get back into the graces of the American people and I don't think they'll be in the white house for a few decades. I have no doubt that Obama will set up shop fo rthe dems for a few decades to come.

Jay Arr   November 17th, 2008 11:00 pm ET

The Repubs can't figure out how to fight and win a war. For all the Repub rhetoric of social demons and fiscal values, why did they get the entire world to hate America and drive us 10 billion dollars into more debt?

Franky   November 17th, 2008 10:58 pm ET

Poor, poor GOP. So much to learn in so little time. Is sad that they can't even get on the same page.

Boy, are they going to need a good "draft" in the upcoming season. Who will emerge? Who will be the biggest free agent? This party is gonna need to do more rebuilding than the Clippers had in ALL of their seasons combined! You cannot have a good gameplan if you don't have a good quarterback, right? You cannot have a good scheme if you cannot protect your quarterback, right? To come and think about it, they probably don't have it as bad as the Bengals! LOL!!!

But get this first though. They gotta have an identity…

I gotta say, this is more big news than the Cowboys for crying out loud, LOL!!

scoreboard   November 17th, 2008 10:58 pm ET

to me more sounds llike he is losing big, rather than settling any scores

scoreboard   November 17th, 2008 10:57 pm ET

sounds to me more like he is losing big, rather than settling any scores

Dylan, Los Angeles   November 17th, 2008 10:54 pm ET

You tell em Huck…I won't be voting Republican ever but still think you're a million times better than jerks like Romney and Ghouliani.

Jay Arr   November 17th, 2008 10:53 pm ET

Wow.. Hey Reds keep the bickering going …it's what you do the best…blame everyone except yourselves. Huckabee, Romney, Palin are all out of touch and will never amount to anything. Let em cry. The only Red who has anything meaningful to say is Louisiana's Jinto. Watch out for him. He could be the Obama of the Red eyes.

meteorcrater   November 17th, 2008 10:53 pm ET

Nice guy, but we've seen what a born-again can do when he forces his religious views on the Country. Never again. It retarded medical research and education so that we're neck and neck with Slovakia rather than leading the world in science and math. On the plus side, we do lead the word in dressing and acting like airheads, hookers and pimps. That's gotta count for something.

Texas Teacher   November 17th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Gary…. the real deal is a pitiful claim… there was nothing REAL about the campaign that McCain/Palin ran! It was full of evil lies and unfair attacks. I don't know how any of them can look themselves in the face of a mirror. If that is what you call the "real deal"… all I have to say to the likes of you is that it was maybe Real for you… and Fun in a comical way to the rest of us…. but NOT REAL FUN or we would not have voted you bozos OUT of office! Wake up and smell the stench of your party's policies… nothing REAL about it except that it DOES stink!

chester   November 17th, 2008 10:50 pm ET

Hillary should run as a Republican, that would stop all this irresponsible nonsense

Texas Teacher   November 17th, 2008 10:46 pm ET

And the beat goes on…. the beat goes on…. drums keep pounding rhythm to the brain.. :)

These Republicans are sore losers… but sometimes in the case of Huckabee, you just gotta call a duck a duck… if you know what I mean! :)

The Republican party is falling apart…. they know they are wrong….!they know the last eight years have been wrong…. actually, I think it is hitting them that they made a wrong turn way back in the Clinton witch hunt. Their actions were not just wrong, they were obscene. They sold their souls to the devil…. literally, in the name of Kenneth Starr and his cronnies. What they reaped from that obscenity is the Bush/Cheney years. Yes, Cheney, lest we forget he is the voice behind the scenes… and Daddy Bush along with him being coached all by Karl Rove and the like! And now they are all buried in a deep hole watching the sides cave in on them…. They have gotten rich off the last years…. but at what price? The emperor has on NO clothes… and we all see it now! They have more than mud on their faces… they have blood on their hands.

Obama will have to hit the ground running to dig us out of this mess! He will choose the people HE FEELS are best for his administration. I have complete confidence in the man! But even if he can't do this in four years… at least, it won't be as bad as it has been. We will be onhe the way up, instead of down.

Philadelphian trapped in Texas   November 17th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

Even this strong liberal and an atheist can LIKE Mike Huckabee, and can admire his honesty. Calling Romney the hypocrite he is, and Thompson lackluster, may be bad politics … but it's straight talk like we never heard out of McCain. Mike, keep telling it like you see it. I'll never vote for you, but I'll sure respect you.

Michael ATL GA   November 17th, 2008 10:38 pm ET

Mike
Get a grip;
U didn't win the nominations DESPITE those losers you whine about. Inspite of the diluted herd, U still couldn't win the nomination. Doesn't speak too highly of yourself. Just like Palin, your time is up. Enjoy your Fox news show. I sure don't. It sucks.
Time for Pawlenty, Jindal etc to rise and shine.

Syed Shamsuddoha   November 17th, 2008 10:37 pm ET

Mike Huckabee and Sean Hannity – bot are bullies. These are the ones make money by bullying the good people of America in Fox News. Sean Hannity is a clueless radio talk show host and Mike Huckabee is his supporter.

None of these two has the proper education to start with – similar to John McCain and Sarah Palin. Are you getting the message, folks?

Cheers.

S

Harry, IL   November 17th, 2008 10:34 pm ET

CNN, did you read the book? Why do you give negative report about Republicans. Huckabee was simply pointing out to his differences with Mitt Romerny in few lines. It was not even on a full page. You do not have to publish such negative report about it. You should talk about Sen. Chris Dodd & barney Franks who got benefit from Nationwide, Rev. Jeremiah Wright who was in the pulpit for 20 years while Barack was in the pews listening to him. Get a life and try to give un-biased news. It is better for your future viewership. What happened to Glen beck? No conservative reporter can stay with you. Wolf Blitzer, Campbell Brown are the liberal vopices you have there.

Reality   November 17th, 2008 10:34 pm ET

Let me get this straight:

Cherry picking three (3) lines from Huckabee's book to create non-existent discord is A-OK.

Cherry picking chapters from Obama's book to demonstrate repeat drug abuse and a deep and personal relationship with a hate-spewing racist pastor is NOT OK.

Gotcha.

Has anyone at CNN read Clinton's memoirs? I have. Talk about dirty laundry!

Tammy   November 17th, 2008 10:32 pm ET

I wish that Mike Huckabee would do the right thing and GO AWAY! Really Mike – what audacity! I don't think you have a clue about doing the right thing. How many ethics violations were filed against you? How many against Mitt Romney? NONE For those who call Romney a flip flopper – check his record, stop taking what Huckabee says as gospel! Mitt Romney governed as a conservative. Huckabee is a typical liberal using the "hate the rich" speech against Romney. Romney graduated from Harvard – Huckabee from Bible College. Romney is a smart business man – Huckabee has a smart mouth. Romney got a good percentage of Evangelical votes – Huckabee got no Mormon vote (and thanks to his deceptive tactics -he never will). I pray that Mitt will run in 2012 because we need a smart man, a decent man, a proven leader and Huck is none of the above!.

Richard Larson   November 17th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

Redux; Henry Miller has it right. As long as the conservative / evangelical right insist upon cramming religious beliefs down the throat of anyone who dare disagree with them, they very well may become so marginalized politically that events will force them, and the GOP to radically reinvent themselves. What I dread is that either one, or both will be kidnapped by a really radical fringe that may try to gain power by revolutionary means. I actually heard a member of the Young Republicans suggest such a notion in 1968. It would not surprise me that there are those who are actively planning such acts. That is why the oath of office for all federal offices includes the phrase " to defend and protect the constitution from all enemies, foreign and DOMESTIC." tHAT SAYS IT VERY WELL.

Darren McEwen   November 17th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

Someone should remind Huckabee that he himself didn't exactly win either.

M. WINNERS, MESA, AZ   November 17th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

What kind of low-road back-stabbing politics did you expect – Huckabee's a neocon-evangelical GOP wing-nut.

Now his party is about to put millions of auto workers on the street, destroy the largest manufacturing sector of our economy and plunge the US into a depression.

Country First – you betcha. They are slime

bimeto   November 17th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

sore losers

Reality   November 17th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

Let me get this straight:

Cherry picking three (3) lines from Huckabee's book to create non-existent discord is A-OK.

Cherry picking chapters from Obama's book to demonstrate repeat drug abuse and a deep and personal relationship with a hate-spewing racist pastor is NOT OK.

Gotcha.

Has anyone at CNN read Clinton's memoirs? I have. Talk about dirty laundry!

sammy   November 17th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

yes, if you put have as much energy into working on the countries issues as you do back biting and power grabbing, you actually might accomplish something. ever thought of that ?

Independent_me   November 17th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Huckabee is right on all counts. I really liked him and would have voted for him. I was looking forward to him running in '12 – but now he is one of the unfair and unbalanced FOX team. They are so far right that I cannot trust anyone who works for that company. I voted Obama, but will vote for a moderate Republican who has good ideas (such as Huck's), and one who will try to bring the country together (as Obama is trying to do). That's the beauty of being Independent… you can evaluate a candidate based on his/her ideas, and not just on ideology ..

caribbean admirer of OBAMA   November 17th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Not important, the American People has to look forward and give all their support to the President-elect so everybody has a chance to maybe experience the American Dream.

God Bless Barack Obama

Donna   November 17th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Wow. The election isn't even two weeks behind us and this is the second report of a former candidate writing a book. These people are fast.

REPUBLIC OF TEXAS   November 17th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

HUCKABEE/ PALIN 2012 THE NEW REPUBLICIAN PARTY

Jen, Cali   November 17th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Huckabee is FABULOUS !!!!!!!!! I LOVE his new show on Fox !!!!!!!!!!!

Ulysses   November 17th, 2008 10:13 pm ET

Just put dear Hillary in the Cabinet, then you got the answer to all things.

Rob   November 17th, 2008 10:07 pm ET

he's a bitter religious nutcase, get this minister a church– maybe someone will care what he has to say

INDEPENDENT   November 17th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

HUCKABEE AND THE RIGHT WINGED REPUBLCIANS ARE LOSERS AND DON'T REPRESENT AMERICA. THE PEOPLE NEED A PEOPLES PARTY NOT A CORPORATE PARTY!

STOP THE RIGHT WING REPUBLICAN NEO CON'S AND PROTECT OUR PRESIDENT ELECT FROM THE SKIN HEADS, KKK THAT ARE ALL RIGHT LEANING GROUPS.

tess   November 17th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

huckabee is at heart a really mean man – he tries to hide it with that fake smile, but look in his eyes and you see jealousy, pettiness, and just plain mean! i am a conseervative republican but i couldn,t stand him from the first minute he came on the scene. he is jealous of romneys money, good looks and general lifestyle. he should just be thankful he has his t.v. show and be satisfied with that! the more he puts himself out there, the more ugly he is.

JR in GA   November 17th, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Repubs are Repubs…no imagination…they love America, but hate Americans

Julianne   November 17th, 2008 10:03 pm ET

Huckabee's schtick may play well in that little red slice of America – but elsewhere, he's as far out of touch as the rest of the gop – maybe even further

Ruth   November 17th, 2008 10:01 pm ET

Huckabee, McCain and Palin.What a bunch of crazy Republicans.!Now I remember why I became a Democrat and voted for Obama.

Dave   November 17th, 2008 10:00 pm ET

This is why Huckabee won't ever get to the presidency. Right now what is really important is the economy, which Huckabee doesn't know much about, so his answer is to rip on Romney.

To bad Huckabee took the wind out of his sails in the primary. Romney probably would have won against Obama with his superior executive experience and economic knowledge.

Bill   November 17th, 2008 10:00 pm ET

Hey GARY, Shouting in all caps only serves to identify you as an idiot, as if your support of Huckabee, McCain, and Palin weren't enough of an indication.

Garrett   November 17th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

"After all, Huckabuck is a CHRISTIAN…"

You know, of course, that Huckabee and the far right Christians DO NOT represent ALL Christians, right? I mean, it seems like a pretty obvious point, but I sometimes wonder about it when I observe the vicious Christian/religion bashing on these boards.

"I just can't trust the judgment of people who take religion–institutionalised, codified, superstition–seriously."

Then don't trust 75% of the people in the US, including President-elect Obama. It is ironic that there are so many intellectual hacks that bash people and beliefs simply because they're different. I always thought true intelligence was a higher calling. Go and read Socrates and open your mind a little bit.

Goodie-Ga.   November 17th, 2008 9:58 pm ET

HUCKABEE you need to stop and get a life. You profess to be a christain . Truly you are a nowhere what you claim to be. The bible said "We shall know them by their fruit" If this is the sour fruit that comes out of you, I wonder if thats a reflection of Jesus christ. I bet you NOT.

Greg, PA   November 17th, 2008 9:57 pm ET

Circular firing squad.

It's amusing to watch the Republican Party implode. I'm also rather enjoying the young Republicans calling for RINOs to be ousted, only further reducing the GOP base.

campy   November 17th, 2008 9:56 pm ET

yea ,the real deal , thats why they got blown out of the water !!!! get a clue , as was stated "we the people" are sick of the lies and deciet from the republicans ,, and I truly think thats why it was such a HUGE ,,HUGE win ,

Donkey Party   November 17th, 2008 9:54 pm ET

The RepubliCON party is a cancer that is eating itself away.

Anonymous   November 17th, 2008 9:53 pm ET

Please do not judge all Christians by one. Looks like we elected the best one after all, he is able to forgive,the true measure of a Christian I guess sitting for twenty years in that pew taught him some thing.

Connie from Indiana

J.C.   November 17th, 2008 9:53 pm ET

Romney's biggest problem may be his deep pocket.

Kevin in ND   November 17th, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Huck is as scary as Palin in his own way.

The disarming down-to-earth persona is little more than a veneer over the real ultra-right-wing idealogue that lurks beneath.

Jonathan, Florida   November 17th, 2008 9:48 pm ET

If Thompson had not been in (wasting folk's times) Huckabee would have won South Carolina (which he barely lost to McCain anyway) causing Romney to possibly reconsider staying in for Super Tuesday. Huckabee did well on Super Tuesday even losing a few states to McCain by small percentages with Romney & Thompson hanging around and sucking votes from him.

People can say Huckabee hurt Romney – I disagree – I say Romney hurt Huckabee. McCain would have never won if Romney had dropped out after losing Iowa & New Hampshire.

Huckabee will be back in force in 2012! Hopefully the real conservatives will realize he would have handled the debates awesomely – as he did in the primaries.

Huck 2012!

Jasmine in Germany   November 17th, 2008 9:47 pm ET

Let us finally enter the 21st Century and leave extreme right views in the Middle Ages where they belong.

Steve   November 17th, 2008 9:46 pm ET

REpublican Party will never survive. A new politcal party will be formed.

billy-bayou   November 17th, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Forget Huckabee, we don't need a preacher in the whitehouse any more than we need that incomeing thing the stupid faction elected.
But fear not, they shall soon regret what they have sown.

Beverly in NC   November 17th, 2008 9:44 pm ET

The Republican party is destroying itself day by day with each person still displaying the same dirty, nasty, smear tactics we saw in the McCain campaign.
None of them can be trusted and they will never be a viable Party again until they get rid of and denounce the religious nutjobs who invaded and took away all common sense of the Republican credo.
We have freedom of religion but we also have separation of church and state for very important reasons. Americans do not like being told by a small group of religious extremists who to live their lives. It is especially infuriating when these religious nuts are so hypocritical. They try to legislate values on the rest of us while they go out and commit every trangression they rail against.
The Republican Party needs to wake up and get these crazies out of the Party. Did they not see how hated Palin was? She was rejected for her ignorance and incompetence for office but they also rejected her for her extremist religious views.
Does the Republican party not see they how disconnected they are?
They preach individual freedom but yet they demand individuals act and live as they say. They preach less government but they want to legislate our lives on abortion, gay relationships, and other areas where the government has no right to go.
When I look at the Republican Party today all I see is hatred, judgment of anyone not like them, complete hypocrisy of claiming to be so "Christain" yet they are ones showing up every day with their preachers being convicted of child abuse, gay prostitution, embezzlement, and other forms of corruption. I found it highly offensive for Palin to parade her pregnant daughter around on national TV like teenage pregnancy was a wonderful thing. Palin herself was convicted of ethics violations and abuse of power and another Republican Senator from her state is now a convicted felon.

And these people want to tell me how I should live my life and what my religious and moral values should be??

Are you kidding me? The Republican Party is full of self-righteous, corrupt, racists who cater only to old white people and relgious nutjobs. And they think they can really represent America as a real anc crediible Party?

They need to get some intelligent members of their Party together and set a completely new direction for themselves or they will cease to exist by the time the next election comes around.

down but not out   November 17th, 2008 9:43 pm ET

I agree that Fred Thompson's campaign was rather dismal. When I saw Fred in the debates, he looked tired, sickly (kept coughing and blowing his nose), and frankly uninterested in being there.

I would have expected better behavior from Romney, though. Being unwilling to congratulate the winner is petty and childish. Wow, I laughed when hearing about Palin considering a 2012 run, but I guess she may be all the GOP has. Has Romney already dug up dirt on Jindal and Pawlenty? If not, then don't count them out.

Karisa and John McAllister   November 17th, 2008 9:42 pm ET

Sore loser.

Roshan Bagga   November 17th, 2008 9:39 pm ET

What do expect from the bunch that believes that God created the world in six days and took the seventh day off to play golf!

Anonymous   November 17th, 2008 9:39 pm ET

And Huckabee was the one who always said he would never run negative comments about his opponents…YEAH RIGHT

craig   November 17th, 2008 9:37 pm ET

Huckabee is a religious bigot. If the republicans gather around him they will loose even worse than this year. He is not scoring any points by slamming the other canidates. He has proven his lack of credibility and dishonesty. I am registered republican and have been a precinct chair. I would never support his silver tounge of deciet.

Willy Brown   November 17th, 2008 9:36 pm ET

You Rock Huckabee! Kick those RINO's…

Obama rules!   November 17th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

NEWSFLASH: no one cares about these people!!

joe smith   November 17th, 2008 9:34 pm ET

snipe,snipe, snipe, who cares. the real deal is how the democrats can even suggest having lieberman remain on as a powerful chair. looks like they are pandering to the good ol' boys or girls in a certain foreign country founded in 1948..when are politicials in this country going to shed way of thinking…

DC   November 17th, 2008 9:33 pm ET

I am a independent and can honestly say that Huckabee has zero chance of getting the nomination. He has a glaring infiriority complex that flares up when he has to face actually qualified presidential candidates. Romney is so much more the man than Huck. Huckabee holds Romney in disdain because of his wealth yet everything Huck does is to "build his brand" so he can accumulate wealth. And his blatant bigotry toward Romney's mormonism was pathetic and ugly, just like him. His true colors continue to show and, yes, by their fruits ye shall know them. America will never elect a baptist preacher.

Huckabee: BIGOT, HYPOCRITE, LOSER….TOTAL LOSER…TOTAL FREAKING LOSER

Tim E   November 17th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

I absolutely cannot wait for 2012! Let's fast forward the Obama Presidency and get right to the nitty gritty of a Palin-Huckabee ticket. I am thrilled by the prospect of blogging on the candidacy of a down south, evangelical, guitar picking, bible thumping clown running as #2 to Wasilly Sarah and her 'goshdarnbejesusgoldarnyoubetchathere" platform to transform America into the North Slope Hillbillies. With his guitar as accompaniment Sarah will finally get to showcase her talents. With or without wardrobe. She may not know the difference between Africa as a country and Africa as a continent, but Huckabee knows exactly what to export there. Wherever. You betcha.

Richie   November 17th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

YAWNNNNNNNN

FEH   November 17th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Yes, very Christian. Nevermind that whole "turn the other cheek" thing.

Rob   November 17th, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Fred always said he didn't really want the Job. I think he was just tring to get things moving and make some $$.

hitobito   November 17th, 2008 9:29 pm ET

The GOP is sliding into the cesspool of mediocrity. RIP!

Kenneth Burchfiel   November 17th, 2008 9:27 pm ET

"Mike, I think you're a nice guy, but but so long as you commingle politics and religion, you're not going to get my support–I just can't trust the judgment of people who take religion–institutionalised, codified, superstition–seriously."

Note all the people who seem to be against Huckabee BECAUSE of his religion. Are they any better?

Brenda Morrisey   November 17th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Mike Huckabee is a conniving little weasel. Anything, but the upright conservative holy man he claims to be. Talk about a phony. He never did get more of the electoral vote than Romney even though he stayed in until McCain got the nomination. I am one conservative who would pick Mitt Romney (or Fred Thompson) over him any day of the week.

mrsblue   November 17th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Why do Americans afraid of a true Christian candidate to lead them?
Why! Why! Aren't you glad you don't live in China or North Korea or Russia? Why do you take Christianity for granted? Some Americans, even the so called Christians don't want a preacher in the White House.They even say that it's alright to hear their pastor preaches to them ,but not from a president preacher. America used to have president preacher, a son of a preacher.What's going on now? What happened to the a land where majority of Christians live?Do you want to become like Great Britain now? Where God's glory departed?Don't let that happen to America. America has become the laughing stock of the world now.
Huckabee with the help of God Almighty will mend this country, if you Americans let him and give him a chance. If you give a former Muslim a chance,why don't you give Huckabee a chance. Please don't bring up the fact that his son killed a dog.Huckabee 2012. Remember: a true Christian is not always popular. The good I mean bad old Devil
is always after.He's not after those he already owned.Oh my, it may not be posted. I'll take a chance.

Doug   November 17th, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Jason Sieckmann…..great comment! Religious loons is dead on!

Desert Storm Vet   November 17th, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Huckabee ran Arkansas like a Democrat, what does he know about being fiscally conservative?

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   November 17th, 2008 9:21 pm ET

They are all trying their best to "outconservative" each other.

Don't they know conservatism is yesterday's news?

Stan   November 17th, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Huh? Huckabee talking about how bad someone else's campaign was?

I don't see a "President-Elect" in front of your name, Huckster.

GARY: HUCKABEE IS LIKE MCCAIN AND PALIN

Says it all.

John   November 17th, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Have you liberal twerps taken into account that the spotlight is now on your shoe-shine boy to actually do somthing? And, that if the Demo-rats screw it up it will set your Communist movement back a 100 years? Who ya going blame now … When everything you believe in fails … as usual? HA HA hahahahahahahahahh … have fun twerps, cause we who make the country run are going fishing. Get it? No income … no tax base. YOU are now the rich & taxable. HA HA HA hahahahahahahahaahh …. (gasp)

Texas Democrat   November 17th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

I STILL WISH IT WOULD HAVE BEEN

CLINTON VS.ROMNEY

box of rocks   November 17th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

He should stay in Mayberry,fixin cars and goin fishin with Opie.

Stop   November 17th, 2008 9:07 pm ET

I am a Republican and disagree with the party's stance on gay marriage, abortion, stem cell research and generally social issues…however people need to stop berating Christians. Would you say the same thing about the Jewish or Islamic faith in this blog? Would expect some religous tolerance from the open minded…

Dave   November 17th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

Are you kidding me? This is the "likable, honest," christian? What a pansy… Being Christian myself, I would rather vote a abortion loving democrat in over some loser that doesn't even "practice what he preaches".

Cynthia a conservative voter   November 17th, 2008 9:04 pm ET

Sour Grapes! Huckster take all that you stole from the Govenors Mansion in Arkansas and from the people of Arkansas along with your sarcastic attitude staight to HELL with you. You are a cry baby. You like to throw sharp barbs, then cry foul when they are returned.

Drill, Baby, Drill   November 17th, 2008 9:02 pm ET

Nice lavender tie, eh!

DOCS 3   November 17th, 2008 9:00 pm ET

THE REALITY —- WHEN IT COMES TO ALL OF THESE PEOPLE NOBODY REALLY CARES. IT IS LIKE COMING TO A FIGHT AND THE FIGHT IS OVER. WILL SOMEBODY OUT THERE GIVE HUCK A CHRUCH OR JOB IN OUTER MONGOLIA. PLEASEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!

Is Obama the tolerance President?   November 17th, 2008 8:58 pm ET

Evidently not since he refused to support gay rights. He refused to come out against Prop. 8 and refused to say anything while gays were marching over the weekend.

Evidently Obama only believes in rights for certain minorities, not all.

He's just a slick politician who doesn't walk the talk.

chris   November 17th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Huckabee should please get a life.

John   November 17th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Nothing more entertaining than watching GOP clowns cannibalize each other.

bon apetite

LMJ   November 17th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

I am from Arkansas and I know Huckabee. He is conceited, self-centered and amazingly egotistical. Half of the bridges, wildlife areas and boat docks in Arkansas are named after him or his wife. If a preacher is supposed to be humble, somebody forgot to tell the Huckster. He also DOES hold a grudge.

Jk   November 17th, 2008 8:54 pm ET

like the saying goes, 'fight baby, fight!!! not drill baby, drill!! rep make me sick!! GOP=GREEDY OWN PARTY!!

Rhiannon   November 17th, 2008 8:54 pm ET

Huckleberry is a rube who will not go away. He is among the most self-serving of all politicians of all time. He spent his entire time in Arkansas promoting himself and furthering his own agenda for national office. This guy is a phony of the highest degree. Ask yourself, if the people are Arkansas were incredibly happy to see his back-side leaving the Governor's Mansion in Little Rock, why would any one want to consider taking this guy on even for dog catcher?
Little Rock, AR

Perusing-Through   November 17th, 2008 8:53 pm ET

IF I WERE YOU, I WOULD ALWAYS KEEP AN EYE ON THIS GUY. . .

Huckabee reminds of the character "Lonesome Rhoads" played by Andy Griffith in the movie "A Face in the Crowd". Just a good 'ole country boy armed with a barrel of beguiling charm, but laced with a jug of rattlesnake venom.

LMJ   November 17th, 2008 8:51 pm ET

I am from Arkansas and I know Huckabee. He is conceited, self-centered and amazingly egotistical. Half of the bridges, wildlife areas and boat docks in Arkansas are named after him or his wife. If a preacher is supposed to be humble, somebody forgot to the the Huckster. He also DOES

Anonymous   November 17th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

Huckabee, get over it and stop being a sore loser!! You really never had a chance….

bill pike   November 17th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE. get video of hagee/parsley/other right wing republican supports AND mickie. they put down catholics/jews/blacks/muslims/anybody that does not believe the way they do–romney to get nomination for this party????? dobson went after him in the primaries. i am an ex republican who fits their profile—white/small town/business owner/born again/spirit filled/against abortion. the other part of that bible–feed the poor/take care of the sick/homeless/etc——they must have torn that out. Won't even talk about an illegal war that criminal charges need to be filed.

BTGH, Streamwood, IL   November 17th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

It will be interesting to read these comments in the full context of the book.

On face value, they confirm my view that Mike Huckabee was not, is not, nor will ever be a suitable GOP presidential nominee.

Meka   November 17th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

Must say, Huckabee was the ONLY candiate . . . that stood a chance!

And I'm a committed Democrat for President Elect Obama.

don   November 17th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

This guy is a TOOL

pam Eugene OR   November 17th, 2008 8:45 pm ET

And we are supposed to believe Huck-a-joke was the perfect candidate.
He was a looser right out of the gate. Most Americans could not even hold their noses long enough to vote for Huckabee. I could have voted for Romney had the situation been different but Obama stole my imagination!
Maybe next time for Mitt but Huck-a-joke will, never get a majority vote.

Simmy   November 17th, 2008 8:45 pm ET

Did you say Huck… was a Christian or a Kristna?

Sevin   November 17th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

I do not believe that it is smart for Huchabee to beat up on potential Republican leaders. The mudslinging, instead of focusing on the issues, cost the Republicans the election. This party is going to have to get to a point where they lay out their agendas instead of belittling others.

Richard   November 17th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

The repubs tried to sling mud at Obama and that didn't work, so now, to calm their withdrawel symptons, they are slinging it at each other. So, the message from this democrat to the GOP – PLEASE PROCEED!!!! Popcorn anyone??

Simmy   November 17th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

Still irrelevant, and that show he hosts will only survive on Fox. You know, 'like minds?'

I'm with Henry Miller.   November 17th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

I do not want anyone mixing religion with politics.

BUT, while I don't support Huckabee politically, I think he is the most genuine and decent guy out there.

Just watch his show once. He really is a nice man.

Dan in Chicago   November 17th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

Psh… Huckabee wouldn't have stood a chance in this election and he's just as doomed if he wins the nomination in 2012. He's also no conservative… maybe socially, but that's all.

Huckabee, Romney, Palin, Giuliani, Thompson, Gingrich, etc. all would meet defeat, even after 4 years of Obama.

Farmer Mikey   November 17th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

While Huckabee has gone out to pasture with his own FOXnews soapbox, we all continue to agree that Romney's economic credibility may have been just what John McCain needed to fend off the campaign disasters that resulted from the economic meltdown. A confident voice in his corner (as opposed to Ms Palin, who offered very little comfort or authority) may have kept him in the race. Huckabee is of Palin's camp, someone who uses moral indignation to mask contempt. I left the party out of fear for politicians of Huckabee's ilk and stayed away because Palin presented more of the same. As long as its politicians frown on intelligence and education by labeling it "elitism," they will continue to shed its most able supporters.

barbara   November 17th, 2008 8:38 pm ET

Very Christian of Mr. Huckabee.

T-Bone   November 17th, 2008 8:38 pm ET

The best news is the joker (Rudy) says he might run in 2012!

Susie oklahoma   November 17th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

LOL, I live close to Arkansas so when he was here doing his thing it was constantly on the news. Huckabee is nothing but a joke and everyone was glad to see him go. When I first saw he was going to make a run for President I and my family,friends,coworkers..heck even strangers in the surrounding areas laughed our booty's off. I'd feel sorry for America if Huckabee was ever President. Thank god we've got an intelligent man coming to the White House. Thank god for Obama/Biden!!

Rachel   November 17th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

You all lost no need to see who the biggest loser was your all equal in the suck department.

John Q Adams   November 17th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

I wonder how many times he mentions his goblin of a wife. What a freaky looking woman.

Charlie in Maine   November 17th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

Your party is awaiting moderation. Good luck with that!

bill for barack   November 17th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

Like him or not, Mike Huckabee is certainly one of the most colorful characters to come down the pikein a while.
But for him to take shots at Romney and Thompson – well now, just how Christian is that ?
Sounds like someone needs to practice a little forgiveness – or seek some of his own.

Moe, NY   November 17th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

What all of the above mentioned politicans do not get is: No more Republicans/Neocons are wanted in office. The American people have spoken…we have had enough of the BS, both political and religious.

Charlie in Maine   November 17th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

As long as the next leader of the Republican Party sincerely believes that McCain lost because he "wasn't conservative enough" it doesn't matter to me who that turns out to be or how negative he or she is towards the others. The really dangerous Republican will be the one who realizes that the votes are in the middle. Ironically such a Republican would be dangerous only to Democrats such as myself and a relief to the country as a whole.

johnrj08   November 17th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

The next time Huckabee is asked if he accepts the theory of evolution, he better rethink his last answer if he wants to run for president again. This country is never going to elect a president who eschews the scientific method and thinks mankind walked alongside living dinosaurs. Ask Sarah Palin.

Chris   November 17th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Good Lord. Why does everyone worship future politics? Come on CNN and MSM! Lets give peace a chance for a while. Part of me wants this whole Earth to undergo what conspirators think so we can get rid of thoughts like these.

MikeH   November 17th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Huckabee would attempt to rewrite the U.S. Constitution into a religious document. I'm not making this up, he said so.

Absolutely Huckabee, you will not be allowed to destroy the U.S. Constitution to please religious fanatics like yourself.

independent   November 17th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Romney is fraud, Huckabee is right. Romney stabbed his friends in the back in Utah on the winter olympics committee , destroyed there careers and then took credit for saving the olympics.
He is ruthless and don't be fooled by his smile.
Do some research in Utah, you will be surprised.

Trang, Fremont, CA   November 17th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Well, I thought you were the best candidate in your party – good values, but don't impose your values on others. It's unfortunate to see you become bitter like this. But more important, because you are a minister, you are supposed to think about your fellowmen and how to look after them, especially when they are down. How else can you look at God in the eye when you see your fellowmen suffers and not do a thing, because you know they are all God's children. Something I don't understand the Republicans when they tout they are the parties of values, of religion, etc. and they look the other way when their fellowmen are hurting and say let the free market takes care of itself.

This is a good time to take a good breath, fills your heart w/ love, and start a new day, expressing it.

max pargament   November 17th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

Mike dont be mad because you dont believe in evolution…yet ironically your campaign died off in favor of stronger campaigns

Jack in Houston   November 17th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

Governer, please get over it.

Wait, could this be the marketing approach for the upcoming book?

Ennis, LA   November 17th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Huckabee relishes the role of being an attack dog, if only because he
likes it. He never had a chance at winning anything.

Lt   November 17th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Huckabee, who is an evangelical scholar, believes that Christians need to come to the Lord if they want to succeed in politics although as politicians they have a difficult job in remaining faithful.

pat   November 17th, 2008 8:15 pm ET

I think the comments here prove that pretty much only Democrats follow CNN. You just want to sling mud and hatred towards anyone that even looks like a Republican or sounds the least bit conservative. We are fellow americans, we drive ambulances and work in ER rooms, we don't care what your politcal party of choice is. We pay taxes and shop and the same as you do. You throw hatred at Palin, McCain, Lieberman, Huckabee, etc, etc. Pelosi and Ried are pretty left wing if you ask me. But this is not what we need, we need team work to solve issues. If the Dems shove the agenda down our throats, its no diferent that Repub's shoving their agenda down your throats. Grow up, maybe the next blood transfusion you get might be from a conservative. I don't care who comes up with solutions to fix our country, but this attacking each other in the privacy of blogs serves no good. It only promotes CNN more and more as a liberal outlet.

PL   November 17th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Republicans act like 10 year old school kids. Now let's play the blame game. The sad fact is republican lack a plan for the nation ills. 20 years ago all they had to do was run ads slamming Dems and could win. I think its safe to say that those days are over, Americans demand more, we demand truth and action.

Mike   November 17th, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Huckster, you're nothing but a hillbilly with supporters who border on religious bigotry.

Romney 2012

shrinkDave   November 17th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Huckster is doing what Republicans have been doing for say, about 8 years or so: bully others. This isn't even a good strategy for 8 year olds, but they seem like they're on a roll. Unfortunately, our country needs at least two strong political parties to flourish, and that isn't the case now. Unless the Republicans attempt mature, adult behavior, and learn to communicate about meaninfull things, we're all losers.

A Woman In California For Obama   November 17th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

A House Divided…….

Earth to Huck   November 17th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

This is really stupid on Huckabee's part. It accomplishes nothing (as someone else wrote, who cares?) and it needlessly antagonizes voters and supporters of Romney and Thompson. I would have preferred either Romney or Thompson over Huckabee in 2008 and now after reading this I'm even more in that direction for 2012. Huckabee sounds just childish.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   November 17th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Huckabee used the church to launch his political ambitions just like a snake oil salesman.

Matt of Boston   November 17th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

This guy couldn't win the governorship of Arkansa – he is toast – So is Romney and Thompson.

Gene   November 17th, 2008 8:04 pm ET

Though I don't agree with Huck's tendency to want to incorporate staunch Christian religious principles into government.. I will say that as a person, I really like Huckabee. He's very polite, open, down to earth… just a nice guy. Would I want him for president.. no. Would I have a beer with the guy? Absolutely. Will I buy this book? lol no. Would he have fared better than McCain in the general election.. I doubt he would've won.. but I think he might have done better than McCain.

JOE THE CHRISTIAN   November 17th, 2008 8:03 pm ET

WHAT DOES PALIN AND HUCKABEE HAVE IN COMMON?

They both submit to the Lordship of Christ and Speak in tongues on sundays. Weekday they baptise their opponents as terrorits and capitalise on their ill-informed base by spreading fear and rumors.

FRO Palin talk, i actually thought Obama will appoint Osama as Secretary of State!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DEAR LORD, PLEAE SAVE US FROM RELIGIOUS NUTS!!!!!!!!!!!

Roy   November 17th, 2008 8:03 pm ET

I truly believe a Huckabee/Palin ticket could knock out…..say…..100 eletoral votes in 2012!! Who puts the 'Con' in conservative baby?

Aaron from ohio   November 17th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

This is more fun than watching two drunk aunts at the family reunion pull each others wigs off. You want to break up the fight but wind up getting another beer and egging them on.

rebekah   November 17th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

I am so sick of the religious right! Have they forgotten our country was founded on the separation of church and state? It's about high time the churches who are pushing their political agendas should start paying taxes like the rest of us! People need to stand up to the religious intolerance, hatred and bigotry of the churches and demand that they start paying taxes because they are pushing a political agenda! You betcha they would change their tune if they had to pay for it!

Herman In LA   November 17th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Just go away….

Bob Stephens   November 17th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Another Republican loser. Maybe he can team up with Palin in 2012. They wold be lucky to carry 5 states.

ken   November 17th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

sure way of marketting books. Who care about republicans and their book deals!!

RICK   November 17th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Fred was a dud.
Mitt was OK.
The HUCK is super!

Only the Huck is worht looking at in '12 – the rest are goners.

Dennis   November 17th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Mike who?

SD,Michigan   November 17th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Rev.Huckabee, not very Christian-like of you to attack fellow Republicans…Don't they have enough problems? Jeez…
You seem like a nice fella, but when you say that "separating religion from government is impossible"…well…you lost me forever. I don't wanna even hear the rest.

Mark Knox   November 17th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Not a huge fan of Huck's, but being a resident of Tennessee, his comments on Thompson are dead on. Fred either didn't want it, or was arrogant enough to think he could drive his famous red pickup straight to the White House merely on his "Big Fred" persona. There was such a palpable air of anticipation here prior to his announcement, and he just let it all slide sideways once his hat was in the ring. Whenever I see a holdover Thompson supporter now and then still sporting a "Tennessee is Thompson Country" bumpersticker, I want to stop them and ask if anyone has told Big Fred that…

FreeNLovIt   November 17th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Dont laugh at the ELEPHANTS! Obama will need to be STRONG and STAND FIRM. Hopefully Obama will move to the center and not be too liberal. If he wants God's blessings, he better not be endorsing policies that are too far left. Right now, we're entering the age of the AntiChrist and Obama is the perfect candidate, to help usher him into society…. (embracing all religions… embracing just about anything..)

annie - never again a dem.   November 17th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

And the 'good ole boys' network is trying to pretend that Gov. Palin does not exsist! Good try! It's this same bunch of 'good ole boys' who have run the Republicans into the ground. Step aside and let a real human being come forward who can unite the party if the 'good ole boys' will put their egos aside!!!!

Bob   November 17th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Do only Liberals leave comments here?

Greg, San Francisco, CA   November 17th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Who would Jesus throw mud at?

The End of the Right   November 17th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Huckabee is a religious fanatic. He needs to be kept a safe distance from government!

Douglas in Texas   November 17th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Huckabee may be a christian, but he certainly doesn't act like one. I am so tired of the Christian Right Candidates trying to ram their beliefs down our throat. This is a country that needs to remember the seperation of church and state. I would never vote for a Baptist Minister to be prisident of the US and I am a christian. The Christian Right movement with its devisiveness, hate speech ect. will never win again if they continue with their hate speech and fear tactics. Remember the golden rule. It is a very important part of what Christ taught and this group of people have no idea what it means. They are mean spirited and cause people to be harmed. Look how much Sarah Palin increased the anger at her rallies. If someone or a political party can cause the audience to yell out some of the threats against Obama as occured in the campaine they have no business running this country.

Lilarose in Bandon, Oregon   November 17th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

We need to keep religion out of politics.

There is too much religion in American politics now, which means alot of dodo birds are involved in running our country.

Huckabee is one of them.

Move to Alaska and help Sarah out there.

Up quark   November 17th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

When you're as dumb as a sack of rocks your best move is often to attack your opponents. As Huck proved throughout his campaign, his deceit is only exceeded by his hypocrisy. If this idiot is taken seriously over the next four years, then Republicans will deservedly be out for eight years.

FreeNLovIt   November 17th, 2008 7:46 pm ET

Our President needs to be someone with judgement, vision and patience and I believe that Huckabee has it. His agenda seems to reflect policies that will benefit all of America. According to his track record in AK, he made tough un-popular decisions, that benefitted his state. That's what I call a MAN!!

strong   November 17th, 2008 7:46 pm ET

Why does everyone have to write a book? If you buy Huck's book, it will just be a warmed-up rehash of squabbling and name dropping. We are sick of it all.

No thanks.

Nathan- a liberal Christian who Cares for the poor and the environment   November 17th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

and who was huckabee? The only reason his campaign had a shot at all was the fact that Iowa sometimes likes to pick the underdog. He is very out of touch with the rest of the country not unlike the rest of the GOP candidates. Besides, you could criticize him all day for staying in the race far past even any literal chance of him winning, wasting money and soaking just a little more limelight.
But we can say bad things about every candidate… remember "We are not as divided as our politics suggest." -Next Commander and Chief

Watchin' the GOP Implode!   November 17th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Circle the wagons and fire in boys!! It's time to play the blame game!

The Reagan Revolution has been exposed for what it was…the rich, right wing, politicos convincing social conservatives that they were on the same side. They robbed you blind and destroyed this economy in their own self interest while convincing you it was all about unborn babies!

Now that the Bible Belt has been gutted of jobs by corporate greed-mongers who shipped the American textile and furniture industry to Mexico in the name of increased profits, at least you can rely on the Federal Government to provide an unemployment safety net…oh, that's right, they convinced you that they needed a tax cut and this safety net was only good in supporting minority un-wed mothers who were only having babies for the money!

Well, at least you still have your Guns and God!

History will once again prove that it is the Republicans who make the messes and the Democrats who are the only ones capable of cleaning them up!

Obama 2012!

FreeNLovIt   November 17th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

To Gary
HuckleBerry is not McCain or Palin. He is a man in his own rights and he stands by his principles that founded this COUNTRY–> God, Guts and Guns.

Russia banned God from their society for 40 years. They woke up and they raised generations of EVIL men with no understanding of the purpose of life. Russia had to open the doors to God's love.

Ron   November 17th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

The extreme Rush Limbaugh Reublican party is dead on arrival. The last 2 elections prove it. The conservatives must unite with moderate Republicans and independents or no more victories. REMEMBER IT IS CALL THE REPUBLICAN PARTY,

former gop   November 17th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

Karma. Just like the polar bears the conscienceless republicans refuse to protect, they're eating each other.

Louisiana man   November 17th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

Like dogs fighting over a bone!!!

Perusing-Through   November 17th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

This confirms my long term suspicion. Huckabee is a snake in sheep clothing.

There IS hope for the future>>>   November 17th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

Separation of church and state??? I don't think that is whats happening here. I see too many of these kind of people now a days. No wonder people shy away from going to church. It's the church(es) of "What's happening"?

FreeNLovIt   November 17th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

If you need someone who can think on his own, vote Huckabee. He made tough choices in AK from what I heard, he'll make tough choices to make sure it is effective and it makes sense :)

I like Obama but I still consider him WEAK

Huckawho?   November 17th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Mommy he didn't congratulate me when I won. He's a bad man. Gotta try and sale some books somehow. Maybe if I take shots at folks that would help my book sales. Loooosserr.

larry   November 17th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

Who gives a rats arse what that religeous flake has to say.

db   November 17th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

…a book about some right-wing politicians who had NO chance whatsoever at becoming President Of The United States.
Fascinating.

Leo   November 17th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

This is refreshing. The GOP is not afraid of debate and a little friendly "mudslinging". God forbid a Democrat say anthing negative about Obama. He/She would be labled a racist traitor. Hope this "Obama Mania" ends soon so we can get the country back on track.

FreeNLovIt   November 17th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

I trust MIke Huckabee. He stands by what he believes. This means he's a stable and reliable person and he will do what is right, not be pushed around!!!

Ben   November 17th, 2008 7:33 pm ET

As usual, the media ignores the main points of the book and tries to create petty controversy. The guy was outspent 10-1 in Iowa and still won despite all of Romney's negative ads. Do you really expect him to have anything positive to say about Romney in the memoir?

Jason Sieckmann   November 17th, 2008 7:33 pm ET

Great, the religious loons are fighting each other. Which crazy will it be from the GOP next time?

A Mormon? A Jesuit?

No, we need more imagination….a Scientologist!

Huckabee is as insignificant as insignificant can be. He's infinitely more irrelevant now that the country is focused on economic issues.

What's he going to do to fix the economy, pray? mediacondom.com

This is Jeopardy   November 17th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

Run Guiliani

Run Palin

Run Huckabee

Run Romney

Run Gingrich

AND Guarantee a Democratic Presidential Victory in 2012

JT from TN   November 17th, 2008 7:31 pm ET

That's why the democrat won, the republicans are still fighting about what happen in the primaries and last year and pointing fingers for the last eight years. Lte them fight the democrats will gladly take the country forward.

FreeNLovIt   November 17th, 2008 7:31 pm ET

He cant be any worse than Obama. I'll vote for Frisbee.

Mike from Toledo, Ohio   November 17th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

From one loser to and about more losers

FreeNLovIt   November 17th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

Fred T was the perfect voice to help me fall asleep :)

Matthew   November 17th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

I guess I shouldn't convert to christianity or I'll be called a flip flopper by Huckabee. Stop trying to bring down people with you huckabee! romney is a shinning star in our party and may be all we have left!

Mike   November 17th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

Oh good, the snake oil salesman has spoken. What a relief- I almost had him pegged as a nice guy.

Lesley   November 17th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

More Republican backstabbing. No wonder these guys lost the election and will continue to flounder in their attempt to redefine themselves. What they really need is new blood.

Beverly, NYC   November 17th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

Wow so much bitterness and envy coming from someone who calls themselves a christian. The Republican party are like cats in a barrel. Hope you boys find your way before 2016.

Thanks CNN, it has been 2 days without a mention of a certain cold state governor. I for one appreciate the cone of silence.

Kevin Blair   November 17th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

Not only do Mike Huckabee's book comments regarding Mitt Romney and Fred Thompson indicate the possible direction of his future political ambitions, but also reek of a little cheap shot mixed with a some payback. If Mitt is the Changeling, silver-tongued Mr. Huckabee is definitely the Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing.

California Gold   November 17th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

Is it a requisite of Party membership that Republicans wash their dirty laundry in public and alienate sensible people in the process? Listen up guys and "u-betcha-wink-wink" gals: grind your axes behind closed doors. The rest of us are focused on serious issues and trying to live in challenging times. Some of us are hoping the California fires don't burn down everything we own. So unless you have meaningful solutions to this country's problems, keep your petty thoughts to yourself. You too Rev. Huckabee.

Polly   November 17th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

I would like to see the members of the GOP put aside their differences. It's not good publicity and will not help their party in the future. They sound like children.

Susan   November 17th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

Sounds like the guy knows what he's talking about.

Nannie Bouroughs   November 17th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Well, what would you expect?

After all, Huckabuck is a CHRISTIAN…

Henry Miller, Cary, NC   November 17th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Mike, I think you're a nice guy, but but so long as you commingle politics and religion, you're not going to get my support–I just can't trust the judgment of people who take religion–institutionalised, codified, superstition–seriously.

Catholic-mom-4-OBAMA   November 17th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

For as Christian as the Republicans claim to be, they sure do sling mud at each other! One thing is to attack an opponent during a campaign, its quite another to attack when there is nothing to be gained but a boost for your inflated ego.

Again I say, until the Republicans take the high road, and quit their bullying tactics and vile politics of hate, lies, fear and division they will not see victory. We, the People, are sick and tired of the politics of personal attacks and lies.

Woodman   November 17th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

Wow. And Huckabee is the nice guy. Imagine all the fighting and scrambling we're yet to see as the GOP tries to find a new leader. Reagan's eleventh commandment about Republicans not attacking each other has been tossed out the window.

David T.   November 17th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

Say what you will, Huckster, but the deafening applause for Romney at the GOP convention compared with the polite clapping you got speaks volumes about who should have won the primary. Your prejudicial influence on the Religious Right robbed a good man of his shot at the White House.

Rich   November 17th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

Who cares?

Josh Maloney, Oakland, CA   November 17th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

The blame game does nothing for restoring the Republican Brand.

Sandy   November 17th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Meow?

B. Thompson   November 17th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

As someone who is mostly dem. leaning I really like Gov. Huckabee. All through the Repub. primaries I told all my friends and family that this guy is someone I could see as my president. The one thing that I will always remember is the Repub. debate in TX when someone asked him "why is it that most African-Americans are raised with the same principles that Repubs. run on but yet they hardly vote repub"?. Huckabee said " because they don't speak to them enough". I thought WOW this guy hit the nail right on the head. I'm black and I agree with a lot of things SOME repubs. represent. But there are those few repubs. that screw it up for all.

Allan   November 17th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

The circular firing squad is forming.

Cynthia - Arkansas   November 17th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

The whole Republican Party is in disarray. They will all start to come out against each other soon. Just wait until Bush leaves office! It's every man for himself.

tyler (portland, OR)   November 17th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Anyone ever see that movie I heart Huckabees?

always reminds me of that when i hear about this stiff.

But to be clear, he is a stiff. Maybe not as much as McCain's Arms… but still.

Althought i think he had a better chance than McCain did. At least he looks like he'd survive for the next…. 4 years? Couldnt say that about mccain.

I love how out of touch, old and crochety the GOP is. Makes it easy to be a democrat.

Palin/Huckabee 2012!

Vickie   November 17th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

I quess people like Huckabee will do just about anything for a dime!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shame on you Mike…..

Andy   November 17th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Palin-Huckabee 2012

Janice Illinois   November 17th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

I'm not claiming either party but have some advice for Republicans, Forget everything and everbody you know in your party. There has to be somebody out there that is new and interesting for your group. I'll tell you one thing that is certain , If your putting all your eggs in the basket of Sarah Palin, just go ahead and wring the necks of your chickens. Your party is over if that's the case.

Vic   November 17th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

All the backbiting in the republican party is laughable…. they're all clueless in my opinion. LOL

ron   November 17th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

The GOP reminds me of a movie I saw. "ALIVE" For those of you that have not seen this movie. Plane crash victims eat there dead to survive. I think the GOP would eat there young if they thought they could get ahead.

How could anyone trust these people?

delighted democrat in jacksonville florida   November 17th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

WOW…. and the infighting continues..lol

hey huckabee.. get a clue,, you all suck!!!

Jon Davis   November 17th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

I would never vote for Huckaby because I'm not a radical, extremist, Bible-thumping fanatic who thinks that the Stone Age never happened or that dinosaurs ate humans.

However, I think Huckabee is much more honest than his fellow Republicans. And if we are going to have a fundamentalist creationist fanatic running for president, Huckabee is much brighter otherwise than Sarah Palin.

Larry   November 17th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

Mike–I won't be buying your book–it looks like it full of more negatives.

G.R.I.T. - Girl Raised in the South   November 17th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

The last thing we need in the White House, a sour grapes former minister who believes strongly in "conservative" issues, i.e. values. Talk about some big government getting into your bedroom and your doctor's office.

GARY   November 17th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

HUCKABEE IS LIKE MCCAIN AND PALIN, THE REAL DEAL .

Dal CA   November 17th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Ah those grapes from New England and the Thompson grapes are sour.

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