Sanders’ next steps not set, father says

Despite having the backing of President Donald Trump, it’s unclear whether White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders will be a candidate for governor of Arkansas in 2022, her father told Fox News on Friday.

“Not only do I not know [if she’ll run], she doesn’t know either,” former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee told the news channel. “She has not made any specific plans.”

For now, the mother of three small children will enjoy time with her family, Huckabee suggested.

Should Sanders decide to run, she’ll be a force to be reckoned with, her father predicted.

“She’ll be a great candidate and a terrific officeholder, whatever it might be,” he said.

Sanders’ time at the White House has been exciting, Huckabee said.

“What a life she’s been able to enjoy. She loves this president and will always be grateful for the … extraordinary experience that she’s been able to have,” he added.

Sanders is expected to return to Arkansas in early August, and Republican officials are preparing to welcome her home.

“Arkansas is incredibly proud of Sarah’s service to our country as she conducted herself with leadership and grace,” the Republican Party of Arkansas said in a written statement Friday.

While party officials can’t “speculate on her next career move. … If the day ever comes she needs our service as a nominee, we will be prepared to fully support one of our daughters of Arkansas,” the statement noted.