Jan 23 2008
Fred Thompson states the obvious
Actor and former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson dropped out of the Republican presidential contest Tuesday afternoon. Duh.
The inevitable withdrawal comes after a late entrance into the crowded Republican presidential field. Some considered his September jump into the ring too late.
Still, Thompson continued his uphill struggle until a disappointing third place finish in the South Carolina primary on Saturday. Since then, it has been a matter of when, not if, Thompson would announce his withdrawal.
Thompson chose to bow out quietly. There were no media conferences or formal releases to the press. Instead, the “Law & Order” alum opted to post a statement on his website:
“Today I have withdrawn my candidacy for President of the United States. I hope that my country and my party have benefited from our having made this effort. Jeri and I will always be grateful for the encouragement and friendship of so many wonderful people.”
Arthur Branch fans might be mourning his early exit, but Mike Huckabee probably hasn’t been this happy since he lost all that weight. Huckabee said “he expects Thompson’s withdrawal will boost his support among conservatives.” Thompson and the former governor of Arkansas both competed for the same conservative voters.
“Mr. Huckabee said Tuesday that he might have come in second in South Carolina precisely because Mr. Thompson had siphoned off much of his support, permitting Senator John McCain of Arizona to win.”
With more elbow room in the Republican presidential field Huckabee can afford to have a slice of pie before his next jog.
R.I.P. Thompson campaign: September 2007-January 2008