DB: »Fred Thompson...would be a wonderful candidate, and would strengthen what I think is already a pretty strong Republican field.«
Yeah, well, I agree with the polls of Republicans which say that we're not all that cranked about the Republican field, cuz I ain't all warm and fuzzy about the field.
Sure, Ruds tops the list of preferred candidates; but that's not sayin' much, not being jazzed about about them an'all. He may well be the hand we gotta play. I don't have to feel good about it, though.
Thompson is the only one with complete, conservative credentials. He has potent, conservative DNA. A pedigree conservative.
Now, if Fredster aims for the Presidency, and he teams up with Ruds, Johnny, or the Mittsmeister -- especially with the Newtonator -- THAT will be WWWWAAAAYYYYY coo' with me, and the Dems might as well start lookin' around for buildings to jump off of in a year and a half cuz they're gonna be depressed all up in there.
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Thompson-Gingrich. Ohhhh so tantalizing! What a treat THAT would be!
THAT combo would take the White House, and the possibility of that combo would reënergize the Repub base and THAT would carry over into reëlecting Repubs to Congress!
Dems gotta be worried about a Thompson-Gingrich tix. |
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Preliminarily, I have listened to the main, Republican characters running, or thinking of running, for the Presidency, and, after listening to Fred Thompson last Sunday on FNS, so far, I put him on the top of my list for the nomination.
He is Pro-Life, pro-anti-gun control, pro-anti-same-sex "marriage" and pro-victory in Iraq and in the War on Terror. That's pretty much all I gotta know for him to get my vote. If he doesn't change his basic thinking, I'm with him all the way. |
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Just checked the petition signature total and it now stands at 2920...and literally climbing by the minute!
Six new names added in the last couple of minutes! |
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Please don't put Rudy on any ticket. Hunter/Thompson or Thompson/Hunter, but no liberal New Yorkers, please. |
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The initial reaction to Fred Thompson, whether you are a true believer Conservative or a Deadhead liberal, is that the man speaks his mind and believes in what he says. He exhibits strong principle and as many have noted, has that down home Tennessee "gravitas" that the tassel shoed Armani suits in the Beltway have no clue about.
The question left in my mind is how effective an infighter is Thompson. He carried Nixon's water at the Ervin Watergate hearings and has risen from there. I don't know if he left the Senate because he wasn't being effective or saw the mess for what it is; or, if his ambition for legislation was not as strong as the allure of a big payday on the silver screen.
Republicans should give Thompson heavy points on the "Communication" factor. As much as we regard Bush as a reputable and intelligent card player, his photo ops of his consistent scowling mouth and his malpropisms have been primary in his loss of support. Things would have been much different if Bush had the ability to articulate his positions to the American people and like Reagan, talked over the heads of the MSM to soccer moms and working guys.
Thompson is at ease in front of the cameras obviously and because of his speaking style he can get his message across. This may be the biggest hurdle Republicans have in 2008. Getting the sound bites and the air time to convince the public that he is the guy. McCain is overexposed, Rudy has hurdles to overcome and Romney is a bit complicated for Joe Six Pack to understand.
Thompson makes a lot of sense if he has the fire in the belly and can assemble a campaign and potential administrative talent. He has the skills and appears to have 4 aces in his hand. Can he sucker the other players to win a big pot? That's the question.
By the way, I already signed the petition drafting Thompson. I'll work for him and vote for him. Ball is in his court. |
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I will make a prediction. If Newt and Thompson runs then the nomination will go to the Republican convention. Rudy and McCain will take the blue states. Newt and Thompson will take the red states. Mitt will take the hotly contested ones, plus state in the West and some congressional districts in California.
This is going be a historically bruising primary season. Now if Newt alone or Thompson by himself ran then the election will be different. But if all 5 run, then I see Mitt taking it at the convention. |
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really?! I love Fred Thompson (not just because he's a good actor ;)
That would be grand...I'm almost too excited about the possibility!
J |
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I was thinking the same thing before reading your post to kkdur. Putting Rudy on the ticket with Thompson would ruin it for me (and my vote.) |
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Barnett's observation that the more strong candidates there are in the race, the better for everyone is right. The quality of our candidates shows that we are the party of ideas, the party of people who have actually put thought into what they believe. All of the great debates of our time are taking place within the Republican Party. Why? Because the Dems, once they establish an orthodox position, do not allow dissent or debate (e.g., Lieberman). On some level, I think that the American people really get that about the two parties.
The Republican cannibals need push themselves away from the feast long enough to realize that grousing about Romney's flip-flops, Giuliani's social views, and McCain's supposed betrayals is causing them to be unable to grasp how strong the Republican field really is. Is there anyone who really believes that, taken collectively, Obama, Clinton, and Edwards have more substance or better leadership abilities than Romney, Giuliani, and McCain? Furthermore, the Republican second tier--Paul, Huckabee, and Brownback--are quality candidates, nothing like the cartoonish Kucinich and the wooden non-candidate, Al Gore.
Thompson would be a welcome addition to the field and a powerful spokesman for the conservative component of the Party. |
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I think you have things bass-ackward!
How did you miss the whole point of the Draft Fred Thompson effort?
A Fred/Rudy ticket would be a far better combo to win by rallying the conservative base.
Why do some of you still think we need to have a Rhino like Rudy on the ticket at all? Why not a Fred/Romney?...or a Fred/Hunter?
Fred for President....not a lame-duck VP! What would be the point?
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You want Thompson, start immediately holding all contributions to the Republican party, the elites intend to jam Guiliani down our throats, hold our money for Thompson, they will get the message real quick, otherwise we just continue to play right into the hands of the RINO'S |
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We need to see him get in.
Visit: (OsiSpeaks.com) or (OsiSpeaks.org). |
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Saw Fred Thompson on Fox News this morning. Definitely more of a traditional conservative. I would like to see him get into the race along with Newt. Need more solidly pro-life candidates. |
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I watched the interview this morning on Fox News
Sunday and was surprised to learn he was thinking about throwing his hate in the ring. I love Fred Thompson - as an actor and more as a politician. He would be the one TRUE conservative in the race.
ATTN Brian J: Fred was re-elected as senator, but chose not to run in 2002. Check your facts before spouting off.
I think a Rudy/Fred ticket would be a winner. Should Rudy win the nomination, the selection of Fred Thompson as a running mate would lock up the republicans as well as independents. There would not be a revolt against the republican like there was last year.
So, run Fred, RUN! |
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"...strengthen what I think is already a pretty strong Republican field?
I presume two of those are McCain and Giuliani. Luckily, he did say Republican not conservative field. There we are sorely in need.
I understand his point, but does any of them see conservatives' point, numerous as the field is? Will mediocre now define the entire Republican platform? OTOH, why not an actor to fill it out?
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Well if Fred comes in can ole Chuck be far behind? Good heavens, first Thompson, a great VP choice if Rudy gets the nomination and Hagel, ugh, can you see that character trying to win any primary? Fred did leave Tenn. high and dry for Hollywood and that left a taste in Tenn's mouth. Alexander is not Thompson. But, having said that, if Fred did get on the ticket, he would hold the South and maybe, just maybe help in taking a Blue state from Hil or BO. Say, Missouri, Illinois and maybe keep Ohio. He is right on the issues but will he stay the course with no organization, no money and not much face time on the MSM. Still, get in Fred just to make fun of Hagel, please. |
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Just what we need...advise from the left!
What's the matter Bri...getting nervous? |
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Is that if he didn't think he could be re-elected as Senator from a right-wing state like Tennessee, whatever makes you think he could be viable nationally?
ClearCommentary is right- Fred's got no money or obvious way to get the tens of millions he'd need to run- so of course you insult him. |
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One other word comes to mind regarding your clairvoyant remarks!
BS
....oh wait.....that's two words! |
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Your statement about campaign financial resources...
Your quote: "it's unlikely that Mr. Thompson can muster that level of financial pull."
One word to that remark!...LUDICROUS!
How on earth could you possibly know this? You have some kind of crystal ball?...or do you get your answers from a Ouija Board?
There are plenty of people that would be willing to donate their hard earned cash to support a truly conservative candidate with the integrity and character of a Fred Thompson.....that wouldn't give a plug nickle in support for either one of the alleged top three.
Don't believe me?... check out the growing list of inspired voters that are vowing their time and money to help Mr. Thompson run for the presidency!
I have not seen support like that for any of the so-called top three!
You must be living in a bubble! |
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in the pentultimate paragraph. |
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THAT is why Bob Beckle said "Fred Thompson is our worst nightmare"
That sounds like music to my ears! Where did you hear him say that and when? Was it after the FoxNews Sunday show today? |
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Thompson is an attractive politician because you can listen to him and not be reminded at every utterance that he's a politician. Today's interview on Fox is a refreshing reminder that people who speak candidly and honestly about their values and vision for America do still exist.
That stated, the amount of money needed to establish a nation-wide apparatus to mount a credible campaign for the nomination is staggering. As such, it's unlikely that Mr. Thompson can muster that level of financial pull.
That's unfortunate, because although the three Republican contenders--Guiliani, McCain, and Romney--are each incomplete in terms of the deliverables conservative Republicans are looking for.
I've provided arguments in support of a Guiliani win in the general election because he'd have a good chance to win California and New York, and perhaps that's what this has come down to---i.e., can a real conservative win the presidency at this time? |
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Well said!..."wash out the bong" almost took the words right out of my mouth. My thoughts were "What are you smoking?"
I'm pretty new to this forum and have read only about a dozen of Dean Barnett's columns. He makes a good point occasionally but lately it's been hard to tell who's side he is on. Does he claim to be a conservative or what?
If what Magnificus quoted is correct about what Bob Beckle said about the issue:"Fred Thompson is our worst nightmare"...
That fact alone should convince the conservative rank and file to drop the pretenders vying for the conservative vote.
Also of note....it seems that at least one of our resident liberals...'Lydia'...has her panties twisted over the prospect of Fred Thompson's candidacy!
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" . . . I think is already a pretty strong Republican field. Years where we had to choose the least lame among the competitors . . ."
You can't seriously be referring to the current crop of GOP candidates! McCain's a traitor to the party, Rudy's as big a RINO as Arnold, and Romney can't get his campaign off the ground. These three aren't a "pretty strong" field to choose from; and if this is the choice presented to voters, it will indeed be a choice among lame competitors. Pull the "I'm with Mitt!" buttons off of your eyes and go wash out the bong. |
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Are other Republican candidates conspiring to squash the effect of Fred Thompson's announcement by starting wildfires in Anaheim so that Fox News can sustain monotonous, unjustified coverage of a situation which has yet to occur - burning homes?
Bring on the Fred - shut up with this ridiculous "Fox Alert!" I hope the homes will survive the fire, but a simple alert stating, "Alert: wilffires in Anaheim threaten hillside homes. We'll keep you update through the hour."
Forgive me - just anxious to hear what Senator Thompson has to say. |
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on Friday that Howard Baker was urging Thompson to get in the race.
As a Tennessean, I would be proud to vote for Fred Thompson. I would also be willing to open my pocketbook for Mr. Thompson. None of the other candidates will ever see a penny come out of my pocket for them.
FT is a fine man and was an outstanding senator. I didn't agree with him 100% of the time but I always felt like his votes were cast out of conviction versus political posturing. |
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for Hunter Thompson. He's dead. And, besides, he gets wild after a coupla drinks. |
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I agree with most of what you said except collaring Newt for VP. I don't think Newt will go along because he isn't running and doesn't want to run. The better VP would be Duncan Hunter. I have a feeling a Thompson/Hunter ticket might even carry California. We are not as blue as people think. |
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It is hard for me to imagine a movie star without skeletons in every closet but Fred may have the moral values to be just that kind of American. His voice and demeanor will carry him miles--he exudes confidence with knowledge--that is a persona none of the others have. In recent years all our candidates have taken their words and thoughts directly for press opinions and reports. None of them have been original thinkers--much like Liberal bloggers. If Fred steps in, the rest can run out and quit wasting good campaign dollars. Running mate? Fred can hang tough on Conservatism by putting a lasso around Newt's neck for VP. Newt is an original thinker, he can dissect a problem most others cannot even write down. Newt's personal life will not sit well with some but most will not see that as a dis-qualifier--in 2008 divorce and affairs are things Hillary will be silent on, unless she intends to split from her husband (Lewinsky gargling noises heard in background). Barak should be looked at hard to determine his Muslim teachings in Indonesia and his life and living in the same house with an atheist. The MSM uses Obama's own words to prove no Muslim residual influence in his life. That's good for his supporters but Sharia Law and our Constitution are not bed fellows. Obama is like polished brass, he looks good when his friends first put away the Brasso but the fact they needed it to polish him up says he was tarnished and all Conservatives need do is expose him to some fresh air and weather. The tarnish is there--find it. |
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For anyone that missed it, on Fox this morning
Fred Thompson stated
he is and has always been pro-life;
thinks Roe is bad law & bad med science;
is and has always been against gun control.
is against 'special rights' for gays and against gay marriage though he supports civil unions BUT believes that should be left to the states;
believes we should use enforcement at the border to battle illegal immigration;
we should cut off the reasons illegals come here AND the policies that keep them here (then they'll leave of their own accord)
is against amnesty or any blanket policy regarding illegal immigration;
believes the prosecution of Libby was "a miscarriage of justice" AND would "pardoon Libby immediately" if it were up to him
Good-by to all the pretenders vying for the conservative vote.
Fred Thompson / (Duncan Hunter?) '08
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Now that the Republican base has a shot to elect a man with conservative values your Libtards are going to suffer a thrashing like never before... not even McGovern or Dukakis took a whoopin' like is about to be visited on the socialist/communist party (democrat for those who don't really know the difference).
Remember, even though only 12 Dummycrat Senate seats are up for grabs "War Hero/Gigilo" John-boy Kerry's is one of them... wouldn't be a bit surprised to see a republican majority in both the Senate & House in '08... all those moderates available and those HIGH DISAPPROVALS for you current lead candidate for president... LOL
THAT is why Bob Beckle said "Fred Thompson is our worst nightmare"
How do you spell Republican Landslide?
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One more GOoPer has-been wants a job. (Amazingly, the GOoPers have only one serious candidate running who actually has something to do during the day.) |
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We need a conservative nominee. Duncan Hunter and Fred thompson are conservative. Rudy McRomney are not. |
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Solid. It's a new game. I think it's all over for McCain for sure and I can't see Giuliani standing up to him on the issues. Giuliani is running mostly on being macho and he will look like John Edwards next to Thompson. Very, very serious candidate. I can't wait to see the polls a month from now. Hold the lobster sandwiches! |
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sees a door opening for him.
Rudy, Mitt and McKainnedy must be hearing it slam shut. |
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was the phrase re: the Libby prosecution
"It was a miscarriage of justice."
AND
If Thompson were president now he would "pardon Libby immediately." |
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American Enterprise Institute has a lot of info on Fred Thompson...
His biography includes;
Born in Alabama, the former Senator from TN (1994-2003) is a staunch Conservative and, a man of INTEGRITY.
Currently a Visiting Fellow / Scholar at the American Enterprise Institute Fred Thompson studies national security and intelligence (China, North Korea, and Russia).
Minority counsel, Senate Select Committee on Presidential Campaign Activities (“Watergate Committee”) 1973-1974;
Special counsel to Tennessee Governor Lamar Alexander 1980;
Special counsel, Senate Committee on Foreign Relations 1980-1981;
Special counsel, Senate Intelligence Committee 1982;
Member, Tennessee Appellate Court Nominating Commission 1985-1987;
Actor;
Elected as a Republican to the United States Senate in the November 8, 1994, special election to fill the unexpired portion of the term ending January 3, 1997, left vacant by the resignation of Albert Gore, Jr.;
Took the oath of office on December 2, 1994; reelected in 1996 for the term ending January 3, 2003; not a candidate for reelection in 2002;
Chair, Committee on Governmental Affairs (One Hundred Fifth and One Hundred Sixth Congresses; One Hundred Seventh Congress [January 20, 2001-June 6, 2001]); resumed acting career.
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How about a Thompson/Thompson ticket?
Fred and tommy |
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I just posted a link to a USA Today bio on Thompson from 2000 on my blog. Very interesting story. Hard not to like him. |
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Just reported that Fred Thompson has said "he's leaving the door open"... still 50 minutes until his Fox News Sunday appearance...C'mon Fred, run, Fred run |
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Please....Please run. I too would vote for him in a heatbeat.
I agree with Magnificus - that Mr. Thompson brings with him the character and ethical standards a POTUS should possess.
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He has seen all kinds of disasters and tough situations in his Law & Order TV show. That should more than sufficient to run this country. |
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So was it cool? Was it fun? I'm going to go see it. How about Dean have you seen it? |
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But it is early, and the night is young so I'm going to enjoy my Grateful Dead (one of countless) live CD's and relax and let the best of the best come forward and at which time you can be sure I'll give my vocal and monetary support.
Now about those book reviews. One of my best friends ran off with the last book you recommended (okay so I wasn't ready to read it yet), but none the less I need a new one that I'll have a chance to read before someone absconds with it.
Well, okay, I just came across "Notes From the Underground" which I think I'll re-read. But for now I'll amuse myself with Dick's Picks of the Grateful Dead. |
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Is there a real leak, rumor or story out there floating around that he might actually do this?
Or is this wishful thinking on our parts.
If the former, WOW.
If the latter I'll quote an old friend of mine who often said, "Were if's and but's candy and nuts then everyday would be like Christmas."
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I would bet FNS has the highest audience in years, or at least since C Wallace has been the host.
This program is on the downhill slide and many will tune in only to see what Fred does. I hope he announces his run and immediately announces his choice for VP is Romney if he were to win. chuckle, chuckle, chuckle.
Talk about sleep walking........... I've gotta head to bed. My computer tells me it's now 326 am. where in hell did i lose an hour? |
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in learning more about Mr. Thompson, primarily because I am pretty disgusted with the current crop of McCain, Romney, and Guliani (none of whom will get my vote.) |
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I have heard rumors that beginning this week (or early next week) a group calling itself Massachusetts Republicans For Truth (you would think they could be a little more original) will began running ads regarding Mitt Romney's tenure as Governor of the Commonwealth.
Granted they are not REALLY friends of Mr.Romney and, in fact I have heard that at least some of the money behind the group is being supplied by a very wealthy adversary of Mitts named Rappaport.
I could be wrong, but that is the word around here so watch out for falling numbers. |
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I would vote for Mr. Thompson in a heartbeat. The man has character, ethical standards beyond reproach, a love for the country and, the law. In short all the Right stuff for a president. With name and face recognition he could pull a lot of the moderate vote from the grip of the Dems and, his conservative values will lock up vitually the entire Republican voting public.
I am at least hoping to hear he is putting together an exploratory committee and, that this announcement later this morning (wow it's late and I haven't even turned my clock ahead yet) is not to endorse Sen. McCain. I would be heartbroken by the thought of Fred Thompson selling out to someone who wants to turn this great country into an annex of Mexico.
Sorry, but I do not agree with you about Mitt Romney (and I voted for the man for Governor) because having lived four, oops, make that two and a half years with him as governor of the Commonwealth I cannot honestly say he was a true conservative.
Fiscally yes. Socially, no. Or at least if he was he kept it under wraps until he was down to his last few weeks.
I see him as an opportunist who will be challenged as a flip-flopper, words that can kill a political career quicker than having sex with an intern will.
"Another Massachusetts flip-flopper" will be the epitaph of the Romney campaign. Mark my words.
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BTW, I took my daughter to see a movie and stuck my head in the door of the 300 on a popcorn run. Wow. It is striking on the big screen. I only saw a few minutes--but it was impressive (and rather gory). Still it was stylized gore, like Ran or a Sam Peckenpaw movie. |
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I thought it would be partisan stuff here, rather than let the best man win. Sorry I doubted you. I think Thompson's entry would raise the quality of debate, energize the entire Republican field, and communicate a message of confidence (in a way Newt entry could not do). Not that I would disinvite Newt to this bash. He's welcome too. |
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