Still, while the 51-year-old former governor, says he's not running to be America's minister but its president, he says he has a deep sense of the problems faced by families.

Huckabee, like former President Bill Clinton, was born in Hope, Arkansas.

After working as a minister in Pine Bluff and Texarkana, he went into politics in 1992, running unsuccessfully for Senate. In 1994, he got elected lieutenant governor before succeeding Jim Guy Tucker as governor when he resigned in 1996.

Huckabee spearheaded a drive to spend millions on the state's infrastructure and expand health care to the families of children that didn't qualify for Medicaid.

Serving from 1996 to 2007, Huckabee became a leader among governors, serving as chair of the National Governors' Association.

Huckabee says his administration is responsible for passing millions in tax cuts, but the conservative Club for Growth has been critical of tax increases approved under his watch.

Huckabee's personal story also has captured widespread attention.

Diagnosed with adult diabetes in 2003, Huckabee dramatically altered his diet and exercise habit, losing 110 pounds. Now, he regularly gives speeches about health lifestyles and has run in marathons.

Huckabee entered the presidential race in January, and while he trails other candidates in polls and fundraising, he is seeking to appeal to social conservatives.

He has said he'd push for pro-growth tax policies and seek to curb spending. He opposes abortion and same sex marriage.

He's also called for an expansion of arts in the country's education systems, saying it will foster creativity.

Biography: Quad-City Times | Photo: AP

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