The Free Dictionary stalk·ing-horse (stôkng-hôrs) n.
1. Something used to cover one's true purpose; a decoy.
2. A sham candidate put forward to conceal the candidacy of another or to divide the opposition.
3. a. A horse trained to conceal the hunter while stalking.
b. A canvas screen made in the figure of a horse, used for similar concealment.
Wikipedia:
" The expression is generally used in politics and business. In politics, the circumstances are an attempt to bring down a powerful leader, usually by members of their own party"
Boston.com "Republican Jon Huntsman today refused to rule out running as an independent candidate for president should he fail in his quest for his party’s 2012 nomination.
"Asked, “Is there any situation in which you would run for president as an independent?” Huntsman told The Boston Globe, “I don’t think so.” "
Via Astute Bloggers
Huntsman Says He Won't Run as Third Party Candidate "Some political watchers have suggested that should Governor Huntsman not win the Republican nomination, he could run as a third party candidate. When pressed on this point by anchor Chris Wallace, Huntsman unequivocally said that he would not run as an independent and that he would support the Republican nominee."
However...
Jon Huntsman Hesitates To Answer Chris Wallace Whether He Will Make An Independent 2012 Bid“Can you flatly state right now that you will support the Republican nominee and you will not run as an independent?” “I’m running as a Republican, that’s where I am,” Huntsman responded, which Wallace noted was “not a denial.” Huntsman did eventually confirm he would support the Republican nominee after the second prodding, however, but his hesitation may be a red flag for those who suspect he may be dissatisfied with what his party has to offer.
