Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson Announces 2024 Presidential Bid

Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson (R) announced his intention to run for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential election in an interview with ABC News Sunday.

Key Quotes: “I've traveled the country for six months,” Hutchinson said, “I hear people talk about the leadership of our country. I'm convinced that people want leaders that appeal to the best of America, and not simply appeal to our worst instincts.” Hutchinson called on Donald Trump to withdrawal from the race in the wake of the charges Trump faces from the Manhattan District Attorney, stating, “I’ve always said that people don't have to step aside from public office if they're under investigation, but if it reaches the point of criminal charges that have to be answered, the office is always more important than a person.” Hutchinson emphasized his position was not “anti-Trump,” but instead “non-Trump.”

For Context: Hutchinson joins a growing field competing for the Republican nomination, including Trump, Nikki Haley, and Vivek Ramaswamy. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) is widely speculated to be also planning a presidential run, but has not announced his bid. In most polling, Trump is the favored candidate among Republican voters, with DeSantis polling second. 

How The Media Covered It: Hutchinson’s announcement was covered lightly across the spectrum, as the media focused on developments surrounding Trump’s indictment. Fox News framed its coverage around Hutchinson’s statements about Trump, contrasting them with the other Republican nominees who have not called on Trump to withdraw from the race.