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Former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman said he's open to running for president again, but only if he can identify a path through the Republican primaries. He also heaped praise on former boss — Hillary Clinton — during an Ora.tv interview with Larry King.

"At the risk of totally destroying my future in politics, I have to say she is a very impressive public servant," said Huntsman, who reported to Clinton, then secretary of state, when he served as ambassador to China. "I have to say I haven't been around too many people as professional, as well briefed, as good with people at all levels of life, whether a head of state or the person holding open the door. I think that's the measure of a leader."

While noting their political differences, Huntsman said "she is a very, very capable person."

Clinton, a Democrat, is considering another presidential run in 2016.

King asked Huntsman if he would also consider another presidential run after his short-lived 2012 bid. He said it's hard for "public servants" like him to plan their futures.

"I never thought I would run for governor. I never thought I would be in China as the United States ambassador. Things happen," he said.

When King pressed, "So, you're open?'

Huntsman said, "I'm open, but here's the deal: You have to be able to create a pathway from point A to point B. I can tell you how I'd get to the finish line from Super Tuesday, but I can't tell you how I get through those early primary states, having been there and done that once before."

Huntsman dropped out of the race for the Republican nomination after a third-place showing in New Hampshire. His moderate Republican viewpoints did not mesh with a party that has become more conservative throughout the Obama administration.

Huntsman now serves on a number of corporate boards and is a leader in No Labels, a group trying to break the partisan gridlock in Washington.