Huntsman to quit Republican bid

Jon Huntsman, the former ambassador to China whose presidential campaign never connected with Republican primary voters, will withdraw today from the race for the nomination, his campaign manager said.

Campaign manager Matt David said Mr Huntsman will announce his withdrawal at an event in South Carolina, site of the next primary vote. Mr Huntsman will endorse Mitt Romney, who he believes is the best candidate to beat President Barack Obama in November, campaign officials said.