Conservative Voters Revolt Against Leaders?

What does Fred Thompson's early exit have to say about the power and influence of the conservative "chattering classes" who encouraged him to run for president -- and the others who used their powerful megaphones to prop him up?

... And how about the fact that John McCain and Mike Huckabee -- both scorned by powerful conservative insiders -- are still standing? What does that say about the state of things?

The teaser for David Brooks' recent column may answer the question: "A funny thing has happened this primary season. Conservative voters have not followed their conservative leaders" ...