However, as a good friend to Sen. John McCain, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, Huntsman could net a job offer in the president's Cabinet, should the Arizona senator win in November.

That scenario would move Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert, a Utah County conservative, into Utah's top job slot.

"I'm in the best position already," Huntsman said Thursday, when asked about how he would respond to such a call from McCain.

Huntsman has been chosen to speak at next week's Republican National Convention.

His remarks, still in the draft stage, will likely focus on ethics and campaign finance reform, both issues largely ignored by Utah GOP leaders.

"Reform sometimes means returning to your roots," Huntsman said during his monthly KUED televised news conference, touting Abraham Lincoln's stand for equality and Theodore Roosevelt's respect for the environment.

Huntsman also plans to talk about McCain, the man, he added.

Now 48, the governor has already served in various capacities under four presidents: Republicans Ronald Reagan and both Bushes, and a brief stint under Democrat Bill Clinton. He started as a White House staff assistant under Reagan, then held senior appointments in the Commerce and State departments. He also served as deputy U.S. trade representative and U.S. ambassador to Singapore.

Great experience, Huntsman acknowledged, but also hard on family life. Now a father to seven children, such an offer from McCain would have a downside.

"I have a loving and supportive wife whose love and support has limits," Huntsman grinned.

Plus there's one good thing about such an offer.

"It's hyper-hyper hypothetical," Huntsman said. "I don't expect to get that call."

cmckitrick@sltrib.com