Rick Perry, Mitt Romney, and Jon Huntsman are the only candidates with a decent amount of executive experience.
Perry is a populist who has been an undisciplined campaigner, in contrast to his electoral record in Texas.
Romney's record as a political executive has been the subject of some criticism.
Huntsman had a conservative record as a political executive but insists that he's a proud member of the liberal elite.
Rick Santorum is not a dream presidential candidate but all of the candidates running have their weaknesses, to put it gently.
Out of those you mention, I’d go with Perry...
I’ve ruled out Willard and HuntsRINO. Even Newt had
some executive experience as Speaker.
I have met and spent time with Santorum when he was
my Senator. He is a decent guy. He couldn’t carry
PA in the end. Is he better than Zero? On many issues,
sure. Can he make the fundamental change needed? No one
knows. If he gets the nomination, I’ll vote for him.
Until then, I’m stuck with Newt (not liking that) or
Perry (hasn’t debated well and I disagree on some
issues, but agree on others).
Personally, I’m not convinced Rick has prepared for
the big seat...