Mike Huckabee, governor of Arkansas for eleven years and presidential hopeful for 2012, visited with supporters at The Shepherd Hotel on Monday. Joking that he'd like a photo of the handful of demonstrators outside critical of his visit to show his children that they aren't the only ones critical of their Dad, Mr. Huckabee was extremely gracious and comfortable getting acquainted with the wide variety of people who came out to meet him.
Media were not allowed in the gated location and were left with only the rowdy demonstrators to report on - from the Left and the Right - but the reality was that there were an equal and small number of each and an orderly, well-organized and well-attended event inside.
Known for his quick, dimpled smile and tough views on Middle East policy, Huckabee downplayed predictions that he would replace Obama in 2012, while clearly enjoying the repeated suggestion.
Seen in lengthy conversation with HaRav Porush and later with Tsippi Khoutebeli, Mr. Huckabee also spoke with and listened to each and every one of those gathered as he made his way slowly through the lovely courtyard of The Shepherd Hotel.
Speaking later, his words were well-received as he reiterated his support for the right of the Jewish State to build and flourish, for the long-standing special relationship of The United States with Israel and voiced criticism of Obama policy.
"The question is should the Palestinians have a place to call their own? Yes, I have no problem with that. Should it be in the middle of the Jewish homeland? That's what I think has to be honestly assessed as virtually unrealistic."
He praised Israel for giving Muslims access to Jerusalem's Dome of the Rock — also the site of the ancient Jewish temples — even though the presence of a mosque there "could be considered an affront." "Israel is a place where they're going to allow other cultures and religions, but don't ask the Jewish people whose homeland it is to completely yield over their ability to live within the context of their country," said Huckabee.
Mike Huckabee came in second in the Republican primaries for President, exiting the race in March of 2008 in favor of John McCain. He is a Southern Baptist Minister and political commentator, whose analyses and views can be heard on the Fox News Channel and ABC Radio.
