The seeming acceptance the GOP has shown for Huntsman’s move is in stark contrast to the eviscerating criticism Republicans directed at Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter when he switched parties and became a Democrat in April. “Let’s be honest — Sen. Specter didn’t leave the GOP based on principles of any kind,” Steele said at the time.

But while Specter’s defection helped push the Democrats toward a filibuster-proof 60-seat majority, the decision of his fellow moderate Huntsman, who remains a Republican, to work for Obama carries no such consequences. Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert, a Republican, will fill Huntsman’s spot in Utah and the governor’s exit is not expected to hurt the GOP’s prospects in the state…

Rep. Jason Chaffetz, a Utah Republican and former Huntsman aide, also joined in the chorus or praise, telling POLITICO, “Jon Huntsman is the ideal Ambassador, especially for China. He has strong credentials as a diplomat, he understands the culture, and speaks the language.”