Barbour exit leaves void in wide open GOP field for president

WASHINGTON-Mississippi gov. Haley Barbour s decision to pass on a 2012 presidential bid has done little to narrow down the Republican field, what remains wide open even in his absence. By Rogelio V. Solis, AP

White House strategists see other roles open for Haley Barbour.

By Rogelio V. Solis, AP

White House strategists see other roles open for Haley Barbour.

News Barbour s decision surprised many Republicans, many of whom considered him a strong choice for the nomination given his experience and ability as a fundraiser. There were a lot of people around the country that wild saw Haley and wanted to run to support him, veteran GOP strategist Charlie Black said. Regardless, he remains one of the four or five most important Republicans in America and someone who will undoubtedly play a major role in helping those who our 2012 candidate. Several GOP strategists predicted Barbour's announcement was the first of several to be announced in the next two monthsso far, quickening the lethargic pace of the 2012 race for the Republican nomination. I think we're going to see a fit between now and June 1, said Steve Lombardo, a former advisor to Mitt Romney's 2008 campaign.Barbour said In a statement, 63, it was a difficult, the choice of personal and apologized for disappointing supporters. (A) the candidate for the President today is embracing a 10-year commitment to an all-consuming, to the virtual exclusion of all else, he said. His (or her) supporters expect and deserve no less than absolute fire in the belly of their candidate. I can't offer that with total certainty, and certainty is required. Few thought Barbour s exit would be the end of the ex-lobbyist and former Republican National Committee chairman s national political career. He probably just threw his hat in the ring for Vice-President, Lombardo said.Grover Norquist, leader of Americans for tax reform, a conservative advocacy group, said Barbour would make an ideal White House chief of staff because he appeals to a broad strip of the Republican Party. Haley Barbour as Chief of staff means that any Republican would feel they had part ownership of the White House. Barbour s absence of the race would give an impetus for other candidates, especially those with a similar background. There are a lot of people across the country who are looking for an accomplished Governor who had a great record at reducing government, Black said. Haley fits that Bill, but so does (former Minnesota Governor Tim) Pawlenty, and so does (Indiana gov. Mitch) Daniels. It s hard to say that it favors one over the other. Pawlenty announced the formation of an exploratory Committee last month. Daniels has indicated that he will take a decision regarding his political fortunes after the legislator Indiana pause at the end of this month. Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas, plans to announce today the formation of a presidential exploratory Committee, Drew Ivers, Paul s 2008 Iowa caucus campaign manager, told the Associated Press. For more information about reprints & permissions, visit our FAQ 's. Report corrections and clarifications, contact standards Editor Brent Jones. For consideration of publication in the newspaper, send comments to letters@usatoday.com. Include name, phone number, city and State for authentication. Our corrections, go to corrections. usatoday.com. We've updated the guidelines for the conversation. Changes include a brief overview of the monitoring process and an explanation about how to use the "report abuse" button. Read more.