Category: Richardson, Bill | Main

Richardson: Bill Clinton 'Wants to Keep a Grudge'

October 09, 2008 2:06 PM

ABC News' Teddy Davis and Hope Ditto report:  New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson told National Public Radio Thursday that he has not patched things up with Bill Clinton since going against his wife and endorsing Barack Obama for president.

"Have I heard from President Clinton? No. It could be a pretty much, a permanent fissure," Richardson told NPR's "Morning Edition." "But that’s politics, that’s OK. I did what I thought was best for the country. I’m still very fond of the Clintons. I’ve reconciled with her, but with him, he wants to keep a grudge, that’s fine with me. I move on. I’m governor of New Mexico. I’m happy where I am.â€

Richardson, who made an unsuccessful run for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination, served in the Clinton administration as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and later as Secretary of Energy.

Despite his long association with the Clintons, he endorsed Obama on March 21, 2008.  Audio from Richardson's interview is available at: www.NPR.org

October 9, 2008 in Clinton, Bill, Clinton, Hillary, Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (206)

S.C. GOP Primary: Why McCain Won

January 19, 2008 9:33 PM

ABC News' Gary Langer Reports: A competitive showing among conservatives and mainline Republicans worked to Arizona Sen. John McCain's benefit in South Carolina, with his customary broad support from moderates and independents putting him over the top. His fellow veterans helped, as well.

But it was close: Big turnout among evangelicals and strong conservatives nearly tipped the day to former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee.

Indeed McCain didn't do much better in core Republican groups this year than in 2000. The difference was that last time these groups coalesced around his only opponent, George W. Bush, while this year they divided among a greater choice of candidates - Huckabee, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and former Sen. Fred Thompson.

McCain won 30 percent of party regulars voting in the state, similar to his 26 percent in 2000; and he won 26 percent of conservatives, compared with his 29 percent in 2000. That was good enough to open the door; McCain closed it by easily winning moderates, with 47 percent to Mike Huckabee's 18 percent; and independents, 39-22 percent.

If all the conservatives and mainline Republicans who didn't support McCain had lined up behind a single alternative, he'd have had trouble – as happened in 2000, when Bush won six in 10 voters in both those core GOP groups. Their fragmentation this time made the difference.

Nonetheless, Huckabee ran evenly with McCain among mainline Republicans, and beat him by 2-1 among "very conservative" voters, who accounted for a third of the turnout, up from a quarter in 2000. Huckabee was strong among evangelicals - a big majority of voters, 59 percent - winning them by 40-27 percent over Romney. That was a bit softer than Huckabee's 46-19 percent win among evangelicals in Iowa (where they also accounted for 6 in 10 voters), but better for Huckabee than in Michigan, where he lost this group to Romney, and New Hampshire, where he split them with Romney and McCain.

Indeed the non-evangelical vote in South Carolina was more emphatically against Huckabee than the evangelical vote was for him. He won just 12 percent of non-evangelicals, to McCain's 40 percent, Romney's 21 percent and Thompson's 15.

McCain also was assisted by veterans; a quarter of voters (their customary turnout) they supported him over Huckabee by 37-26 percent; he and Huckabee split non-veterans, 30-29 percent. And McCain won by a substantial margin among senior citizens, while Huckabee did better with those under 40.

Huckabee won easily on the No. 1. candidate attribute, someone who "shares my values," with 45 percent support from people who called it tops in their vote, to Thompson's 19 percent and McCain's 14 percent. McCain came back very strongly among voters more concerned with experience, and narrowly beat Huckabee among voters most concerned with the candidate who "says what he believes."

A narrow majority of voters, 52 percent, said they cared most about their candidate's position on the issues rather than his personal qualities; and this group went to Huckabee over McCain by an 8-point margin. McCain came back with a 17-point margin among those more concerned about personal qualities. That made the difference - but it underscores how close the race was. On issues themselves, just one sharply differentiated the field: McCain won very widely among the nearly two in 10 who called the war in Iraq the top issue in their vote, 49-22 percent over Huckabee.

January 19, 2008 in Giuliani, Rudy, Hunter, Duncan, McCain, John, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (4)

Prior to Final Results, Thompson Leaves S.C.

January 19, 2008 8:26 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: Prior to the final South Carolina primary results being announced, Republican presidential candidate Fred Thompson is heading home to Virginia.

At 7:55 p.m., Eastern time, the former Tennessee senator addressed his supporters and staffers at an election night gathering in Columbia, S.C.

"My friends, we will always be bound by a close bond ... It's never been about me, it's never been about you, it's about our country," Thompson told the crowd.

After speaking for about 10 minutes, Thompson left his election night party, and is planning on flying home tonight to Virginia. A campaign spokesman said their status is "fluid," and they will evaluate their situation, based on final results.

Thompson -- who has campaigned here nearly every day for the past two weeks -- has banked on a win in South Carolina to propel him forward in the race.

From an auditorium at the University of South Carolina, Thompson thanked his wife, Jeri, for being his "strong right arm." Thompson also thanked his 88-year-old mother, who, he said, was in a Tennessee hospital, recuperating from an illness.

January 19, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (8)

Thompson Camp Reports "Smear" Fliers Misleading Record

January 19, 2008 12:22 PM

ABC's Christine Byun reports: Republican candidate Fred Thompson’s campaign is accusing rival Mike Huckabee’s campaign of more "dirty tricks" in South Carolina.

They say fliers with misleading information about the former Tennessee senator’s abortion record were placed on parked cars at their event venue last night (http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalradar/2008/01/thompson-lets-g.html).  The fliers insinuate Thompson voted for funding for abortions through a bill that supported Planned Parenthood. Thompson –- who has received the endorsement of national anti-abortion organization National Right to Life –- did vote for the bill in question, H.R. 3061. However, the bill specifically states that it does not include federal funding for abortions and does not mention Planned Parenthood.  The flier quotes Scripture –- Proverbs 31:8 –- and includes a picture of the former Senator.

"Sen. Thompson worked in the Senate to ensure that federal funds did not go to abortion," a  Thompson campaign spokesman, who provided a copy of a flier, said.

Earlier this week, the Thompson campaign accused Huckabee supporters of push-polling calls.   

“These deceptive tactics are yet another sad sign that Gov. Huckabee cannot engage in a substantive discussion of the important public policy issues facing our country,†Dean Rice, the South Carolina campaign manager, said in a written statement.

January 19, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (9)

Thompson: 'Let's Get 'Er Done!'

January 18, 2008 7:53 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: At a pre-primary rally, Republican candidate Fred Thompson threw out a call to arms for tomorrow's South Carolina primary.

"I need your help tomorrow. Let's get 'er done!" Thompson shouted.

Saturday's results could either provide a coveted boost to Thompson's trailing campaign or effectively cripple his presidential hopes. While he finished third in Iowa, a South Carolina victory has long been a key part to the former Tennessee senator's strategy.

Thompson -- who has been campaigning for nearly two weeks straight in the Palmetto State -- spoke for about 20 minutes to an audience of about 400 people. The crowd -- many carrying campaign signs and American flags -- broke into "Fred, Fred, Fred!" chants at least three times during the event.

Thompson did not mention any of his GOP competitors by name, but declared he was the "only consistent conservative in this race." He touted "sound conservative principles" of the Reagan coalition and rejected the "progressive"  rhetoric he says his rivals have been pushing.

"That's what's happening in our party, and I reject it with every fiber of my being!" Thompson said, drawing loud applause.

His wife, Jeri, and their young two children, as well as Thompson's adult son, Tony, accompanied the former senator at the event.

January 18, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (2)

Thompson: Huckabee Using 'Liberal Catchphrase'

January 18, 2008 3:51 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Republican presidential candidate Fred Thompson went after his Southern rival, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee Friday.

When asked by an audience member at a campaign event in Spartanburg, South Carolina how he differs from Huckabee, Thompson accused Huckabee of changing his stance on immigration.

"Now, he's tough on immigration, tough on the border. We have a bit of a disagreement as to how the present rhetoric comports with past activities,†Thompson said.

Thompson also raised his eyebrow about Huckabee stating the US Constitution is a "living, breathing document" during a CNN interview.

Thompson called it a "liberal catchphrase" and said he was confused by the former governor's statement. Later in a written release, Thompson said he "assumed this came from Senator Clinton or Senator Obama."

"[Huckabee]  does not appear to understand that reliance on the notion that the Constitution is a living, breathing document is precisely the kind of wrong-headed thinking about the Constitution that gave us Roe v. Wade," Thompson said in a written statement.

January 18, 2008 in Giuliani, Rudy, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (6)

Thompson Cries Moral Foul on Huckabee Group

January 17, 2008 2:59 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Republican candidate Fred Thompson called moral foul on former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee for recent push-polling calls to South Carolina residents.

"I'm somewhat surprised that someone who espouses the values the Governor talks about all the time would find himself in the situation ... this is clearly improper activity that is going on right under his nose," Thompson said.

The Thompson campaign says they have been receiving complaints of push-polling calls to South Carolina residents with false information about the former Tennessee senator's position on partial birth abortion and illegal immigration. They campaign says the calls are being paid for by a group who supports Huckabee, who also push-polled in Iowa prior to the caucuses.

At a campaign stop in Prosperity, South Carolina, Thompson did some investigating of his own and asked how many people had received a push-polling call. About a dozen people raised their hands.

"Good gracious … who do they say is calling? Do they say anything good about a candidate?" Thompson asked.

Some audience members called out Huckabee’s name.

"They're picking the most outrageous, easily disproved things they could come up with," Thompson said.

"Desperate," a supporter echoed.

At a media availability, Thompson said he does not believe the push-polling calls would work, and repeated his call for Huckabee to disavow the tactic. He said he believed Huckabee was avoiding the issues.

"This is not a legitimate debate of the issues. I confronted him man to man, person to person at the debates with regard to the issues, this is the response I get, anonymous stuff," Thompson said.

January 17, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (25)

Thompson Makes Large South Carolina Ad Buy

January 16, 2008 8:31 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: In an aggressive ad buy, GOP presidential hopeful Fred Thompson's will air a 60 second commercial tomorrow night in South Carolina on nearly every major broadcast channel from 6:25 pm to 6:30 pm.

In the ad, which is titled "Consistent Conservative," Thompson talks about having "common sense" principles. He says "basic rights come from God, not government," a classic line from his stump speech. Thompson also makes a play at his humble beginnings in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee.

"In a country where, if you play by the rules, you've got a fair chance to live the American dream," Thompson says in the advertisement.

Thompson also touts his national endorsement from an anti-abortion group.

The ad buy has been partially funded by recent online fundraising, which has been bolstered by Thompson's most recent debate performance.

January 16, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (13)

Thompson vs. Everybody?

January 16, 2008 3:13 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Republican candidate Fred Thompson went down the line of his South Carolina GOP competitors Wednesday and described his differences with them.

"We have some Johnny-come-lately's now that don't want to talk about their record and they're hoping there’s not enough time for anybody to even examine them,†Thompson told a crowd at a campaign stop in Abbeville, South Carolina.

Thompson may have been referring to former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, who focused his campaign on Michigan before yesterday's primary, and who has refocused his efforts in the Palmetto State and Nevada in the lead up to Saturday's votes.

During the event, a man asked Thompson to differentiate himself from former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee and Arizona Senator John McCain.

Thompson described fellow Southerner Huckabee as "very articulate, very witty, but does not like to answer questions about his record." He called the former Governor “weak†on the issue of illegal immigration and again railed against his endorsement from the New Hampshire National Education Association, a teachers' union.

“Is he proud of that endorsement?†Thompson asked rhetorically.

Of his "personal friend," and former Senate colleague, John McCain, Thompson said he would “never forget†McCain’s service to the country. However, he said he disagreed with McCain on tax cuts and immigration, particularly his support for last year’s failed immigration reform.

“When I saw him join forces with Senator [Ted] Kennedy on that, I knew that he was wrong track and he was, and the American people said so,†Thompson said.

While he was not asked about rival Mitt Romney, in his response, Thompson also threw some more barbs at the former Governor of Massachusetts for “tailoring†his message to Michigan residents.

"He basically promised the federal government would come in and bail out Michigan when he got elected President – very conservative notion, don't you think?†Thompson asked facetiously.

January 16, 2008 in Giuliani, Rudy, Hunter, Duncan, Palin, Sarah, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (36)

Thompson Says Biggest S.C. Opponent Is McCain

January 15, 2008 1:29 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: From a bustling buffet restaurant, Republican candidate Fred Thompson told reporters his biggest rival in South Carolina is his former colleague, Arizona Senator John McCain.

"I thought it would probably Huckabee, but now it looks like it's probably going to be McCain, but I'm just going by the poll numbers," the former Tennessee senator said during a media availability in Rock Hill, S.C.

Thompson was asked by a reporter what a win in today's Michigan primary might do for former Governor Mitt Romney's chances in the Palmetto State.

"It will undoubtedly recharge him a little bit, but, you know, he seems to have a lot of recharging to do, so I don't know if it will make up enough ground for him or not," Thompson answered.
 
During his lunchtime campaign event, Thompson went after former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee for his stance on education, specifically on his endorsement from a state chapter of the National Education Association.

"One of the proudest endorsements that I never got and will never get is from the NEA," Thompson told a man who asked if he supported school vouchers.

Thompson - who flashed a thumbs-up for vouchers - said a more localized focus on schools needs to be greater. He also said there needs to be an emphasis on parenting to improve learning environments.

"Schools cannot absorb and correct all the social ills that are going around the schoolhouse," Thompson said.

January 15, 2008 in Hunter, Duncan, Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (9)

Thompson's new ad: "Always"

January 14, 2008 4:25 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Fresh out of the recording studio and soon to hit the airwaves, Republican candidate Fred Thompson, R-Tenn., has a put together a new ad entitled "Always."

In the television spot, Thompson appears in front of an American flag and asks South Carolinians for their vote. He talks about his "conservative values" and says he is "100 percent pro-life" while touting his endorsement from an anti-abortion group.

"I'm a conservative. Always have been. Always will be," Thompson says in the ad. "I'll fight against amnesty and benefits for illegals. I'll work to keep your taxes low and keep a prosperous economy...and you can trust me to protect our security against Islamic radicals."

Thompson taped the ad yesterday in Virginia. The campaign says it will replace one of their other ads which is airing now.

According to a campaign spokesman, since last week's debate performance, Thompson's campaign has raised more than $420,000 online, which will help fund airtime for the advertisement and ground operations in South Carolina.

January 14, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (5)

Thompson Talks Economy in S.C.

January 14, 2008 2:46 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Campaigning in South Carolina Monday, Republican candidate Fred Thompson said he would consider an economic stimulus package to combat the effects of a recession.

"I think [there are] a lot of people out there who think we're headed in that direction,"  Thompson told reporters outside his campaign event in Aiken, South Carolina when asked how he would combat a recession. "We need to make sure we don't overreact, as well as doing the right thing."

During the campaign stop, Thompson took questions from people in a crowded barbecue restaurant. He was asked by a local resident how he would keep jobs from going overseas.

"My friend, I think the answer is that we're going to have to come up with new jobs," Thompson answered, adding, "When you lose one over here, you got two over here."

He also said the country needs to remain competitive by enticing corporations to stay within the U.S by slashing corporate tax rates.

The former Tennessee senator said the country's economy would have to "rely on the [Federal Reserve] to have responsible policies." He said he would consider proposals like eliminating the lower tax bracket for a year, increasing the child care credit and providing a tax rebate for those who participate.

He also offered the idea to "revamp our depreciation schedules for businesses to allow the deduction of certain capitol expenditures."

Thompson will remain in South Carolina through Saturday's primaries. Thompson taped a new ad yesterday in Virginia that he plans to release in the Palmetto State.

January 14, 2008 in Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (1)

Thompson Slams Huckabee for Saying Reagan Coalition is 'Dead'

January 13, 2008 12:57 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Appearing on "Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer," Republican presidential candidate Fred Thompson accused former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee of launching personal attacks instead of confronting the issues.

"The contrast between Huckabee and me is I'm talking about issues concerning this country … and he's raised enough money to get some hit pieces and dredge up personal stuff and personal accusations against me, now you’re seeing the real Mike Huckabee come out," Thompson said.

Thompson repeated his litany of contrasts with the former Governor, calling Huckabee out on "blaming America first" in regards to foreign policy and for his endorsement from the New Hampshire National Education Association.

"These are substantive issues – these are not personal attacks – if the Governor wants to get into personal attacks and things that happened some years ago ... there’s enough on the record in Arkansas to keep us busy for the rest of the campaign," the former Tennessee senator said.

Blizter played a clip in which Huckabee accused Thompson of lobbying for foreign countries, namely Libya in the Pan Am 103 terrorist bombing over Lockerbie.

"I was in a law firm that did some lobbying work for Libya, yes sir, that’s correct," Thompson said, but said his involvement was surface-level. "One of the lawyers talked to me about it – I never talked to any of the clients or anything like that."

Thompson again took the opportunity to hammer Huckabee’s campaign for saying the Reagan coalition is "dead."

"He talked around the subject, smiled and giggled and told a couple of jokes and I came back and said this is about the heart and mind of the Republican party," Thompson said of his response during Thursday's Republican debate.

January 13, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (4)

Thompson: 'I've Been a Busy Boy!'

January 11, 2008 10:52 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: At a Mt. Pleasant, S.C., BBQ rib joint, Republican candidate Fred Thompson drew his biggest crowd of the day, forcing overflow supporters to listen from the parking lot.

More than 200 people squeezed inside the Sticky Fingers restaurant to hear the former Tennessee senator, who continued to chip away at his fellow Republican candidates.

"It seems that some people don’t like to have their records talked about," Thompson said. "Sorry to disappoint them."

Thompson drew comparisons with all major GOP candidates -- and was not shy about referring to them by name. He started by needling former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, whom he criticized for supporting a national smoking ban and receiving an endorsement from the National Education Association.

"I pointed out that Senator [John] McCain was wrong in his position on the immigration bill. I’ve taken on [former] Mayor [Rudy] Giuliani as far as his sanctuary city policy in the state of New York and [former Governor] Mitt Romney who had a bill for health care in Massachusetts he was touting, but when he came to have a national healthcare plan, he had to change it all up, because what would sell in Massachusetts wouldn’t sell in South Carolina," Thompson said.

Thompson grabbed a lot of applause and laughter tonight while cracking several jokes. When he mentioned his two young children, the boisterous crowd responded with more clapping and whistles.

"Been busy, Fred," called out a man from the audience.

"I’ve been a busy boy!" Thompson smiled as he dove into a story about his daughter.

After he finished his event, supporters spilled into the parking lot and crowded around his campaign bus as the candidate signed autographs and posed for pictures.

January 11, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (16)

Thompson Staff Moves to South Carolina, Faces Pay Cuts

January 08, 2008 6:06 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports:  Choosing to make his "stand" in South Carolina, Republican presidential hopeful Fred Thompson will move about a dozen campaign staffers to the state in advance of its January 19th primary.

The staff will move from the Thompson campaign's McLean, Virginia headquarters.

Additionally, the former Tennessee Senator's campaign employees -- save a handful of junior staffers -- will face pay cuts.

Campaign spokesman Darrel Ng declined to say how much salaries will be reduced, but said the campaign has raised a half million dollars since the Iowa caucuses, and will be gearing up for airtime on local television stations in South Carolina starting Thursday.

"This campaign is going to be a South Carolina campaign," Campaign Manager Bill Lacy said in a written statement.

"Our local South Carolina team, headed by veteran strategist Dean Rice, will be calling the plays on the ground.  Everything from our ads to our bus schedule is going to be driven by South Carolina," the statement said.

Thompson himself has acknowledged that South Carolina is crucial to his presidential hopes.

"This is where I have chosen to make my stand," Thompson said at an afternoon event in Lexington.

January 8, 2008 in Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (6)

Thompson Jumps Ahead to South Carolina

January 08, 2008 11:27 AM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: While all other campaigns are huddled in New Hampshire, Republican candidate Fred Thompson got a much-needed head start in the battle for South Carolina.

"Everyone is in New Hampshire … [we're] not playing up there," Thompson told a crowd of about 100 people at a diner in Greenville, S.C. "Still got snow banks six feet high there and we're down here in South Carolina, so I ask you who’s the smartest one?"

For the former Tennessee senator, the upcoming January 19th  primary will be crucial.  A senior campaign advisor says they will have to win South Carolina, or come in a very "strong" second, to continue his bid for the GOP presidential nomination. Thompson's campaign will focus all its efforts in the Palmetto State for the next week and a half. Thompson’s wife, Jeri, is also campaigning today throughout the state.

At his morning event, he played up his Southern roots, joking "people can understand what I'm saying down here." Thompson – who once had enjoyed an edge in South Carolina – munched on a sausage biscuit while speaking of his humble beginnings as a small-town boy from Tennessee, whose "daddy" worked for those candidates' who speak of growing up with “poor daddies."

A father of two young children, Thompson mentioned his "two latest, greatest blessings" and how "somewhere, [late South Carolina Senator] Strom Thurmond is looking down smiling."

Thompson continued to tout his message of "consistency." He commented that some of his opponents "are wearing the road to Damascus out" with their "conversions" to issues like illegal immigration. Thompson said he chose "truth" over the theme of "change," which has become the messages of many campaigns.

"The biggest change would be if politicians quit talkin' about change," Thompson said. "Change to what? Change from what? … What do we want to change to – higher taxes and all of that? Like I said, the real change would be speaking the truth to the American people."

The audience pelted him with questions about international and national security. One man, who said he felt Thompson's campaign suffered from a "blackout" of coverage from national media outlets, asked him how Thompson could get more "mainstream media" coverage.

Thompson nodded and smiled, answering, "Win South Carolina."

January 8, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (22)

Thompson's Pick for an Opponent

January 07, 2008 9:18 PM

ABCNews' Christine Byun reports: As a candidate unmoved by the momentum of "change," GOP hopeful Fred Thompson’s pick for a possible Democratic opponent?

Senator Hillary Clinton.

Appearing on "The O’Reilly Factor" from South Carolina, the former Tennessee senator said he’s placing his bets on the former first lady to win the nomination because of "their determination and their burning ambition" and her campaign's organizational clout.

"They’ve been planning this for a long, long time," Thompson said during the pre-taped interview.

One of the candidates not swept up by the trend of "change" on the campaign trail, Thompson seems to be siding with Clinton’s campaign strategy of touting experience and leadership over change.

He did offer praise for Obama and left himself a small opening, commenting "what [he] has done is truly remarkable, and [Obama] may pull it off," but stayed with his prediction.

"Maybe it’s wishful thinking, I’m not sure," mused Thompson before host Bill O’Reilly cut to commercial.

January 7, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (0)

Thompson: Leadership > Change

January 06, 2008 11:24 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: Republican candidate Fred Thompson will not be jumping on the "change bandwagon."

While candidates have embraced the theme of "change" -- some retooling their campaign message with newly-designed signs -- the former Tennessee senator said that "change" is nothing new. At Fox News' forum, Sunday night, Thompson -- who is leaving New Hampshire and will skip Tuesday's primary -- said "change has been a part of every election since the dawn of elections, if you weren't an incumbent.

"What's more important is leadership, and what is more important -- as a part of leadership -- is telling the American people the truth, and having the courage to do that," Thompson said.

Throughout the night, Thompson littered his responses with buzz words like "committed," "determined," "credibility." He did not mince with words as he mentioned the Iraq war, which he believes is "going to take more time and resources." He also spoke about having the "courage" to talk about Social Security -- "something everybody knows, but nobody wants to talk about" -- and repeated that the country would "not be energy independent in a few years, it's going to take a longer time."

January 6, 2008 in Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (7)

Thompson Sets Sights Beyond N.H. ... Already

January 04, 2008 8:17 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: Fighting to stay in the GOP race, Fred Thompson pressed on with his campaign –- but will essentially forgo the next battleground of early voting: New Hampshire.

"It's about South Carolina and getting to South Carolina, and the South Carolina campaign really starts today. Although I'll be going to New Hampshire for the debates, we’re going to be strong in South Carolina," the former Tennessee senator told Fox News this afternoon from Washington, D.C.

While his counterparts have been swarming the state with campaign events,  Thompson does not have public events scheduled for this weekend leading to the primary; he will fly in to participate in tomorrow’s debate and stay for another debate on Sunday.

He has campaigned in New Hampshire for a total of five days; one of his trips was to file for the New Hampshire primary. Thompson’s New Hampshire team –- a small staff based in Manchester -– has been posting signs around town and been making calls on behalf of their candidate.

Thompson's campaign sent out a fundraising e-mail to supporters today, which stated that their fight in Iowa has "left the cupboard a little bare" and they need more funds for television ads.

"We've got some more ground to cover… I'm in this race for the long haul and I want to win. The next target in our sights is South Carolina," the e-mail states, calling the state "critical to our plan for victory."

While he has often described South Carolina his "neck of the woods," Thompson will have to battle his fellow Southerner-in-the-running, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, who has been polling first in the Palmetto state.

January 4, 2008 in Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (2)

Waiting for Fred Thompson

January 03, 2008 11:08 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: As a roomful of supporters waits for the fate of Republican candidate Fred Thompson, they began a robust round of "Go, Fred, Go!"

When a local Des Moines, Iowa, affiliate took a live shot from the downtown ballroom, Thompson's supporters jumped to their feet and started waving their blue "Fred08" signs.

They have been waiting here for nearly two hours as the Thompson campaign staff huddles over in West Des Moines.

Congressman Steve King, R-Iowa, has been shaking hands and talking with those gathered here.

The volunteers and supporters have been eating their way through the refreshments -- the tray of spring rolls has been refreshed a couple of times, and the chef has carved his fifth chunk of roast beef.

January 3, 2008 in Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (0)

And Now The Waiting Game Begins...

January 03, 2008 6:59 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: There's nothing left but the waiting for Fred Thompson.

Concluding a 17-day bus tour in Sioux City on Thursday, Thompson, R-Tenn., thanked the audience of roughly 70 and proclaimed, "I need your help, together we can do some great things for this country."

Thompson, who has visited Sioux City four times since announcing his candidacy in September, started his speech by joking that "starting tomorrow, all the politicians and all the news media will be out of here, it will be safe for all ordinary Iowans to walk the streets of Iowa again."

Thompson closed his Iowa caucus campaigning by stressing his record and experience, emphasizing his consistency.

"What I believed then, I believe today. Who I was then, I am today, that's who I will be tomorrow," Thompson said, repeating a heavily-used stump speech line. "What you see is what you get. I don't
dance to any other man's tune. I have never been accused of changing my political position or flip-flopping in order to address a particular need to win an election."

After his event, Thompson told a local reporter that it's in "the hands of the good Lord and the people of Iowa, and I'll be perfectly happy when those results come in."

January 3, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (0)

Thompson: Others Trying to 'Suppress' Votes

January 03, 2008 4:28 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: At an afternoon campaign stop in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Fred Thompson continued to tell reporters that he believes rival campaigns are spreading rumors that are intended to hurt his chances in tonight's caucus.

"Totally made up of whole cloth designed to suppress my vote as best they can," Thompson said.

The rumors, that Thompson will drop out of the race if he finishes at or near the bottom of the heap in tonight's Republican Caucus, are generated from rival campaigns Thompson said. "It doesn't come from us. It doesn't come, I'm sure, from the [Senator John] McCain campaign. It comes from others."

When pressed, Thompson would not specify which campaigns he was charging with spreading the rumors. He said he would not talk about "process" when asked about tonight's caucus results.

During his second event of the day, he turned his nose to the "process" while speaking to the crowd.

"I'm not going to talk about whether the fire in my belly is at 90 percent or 78 percent or anything like that, I am kind of tired of it. I'm not going to talk about it anymore," Thompson said as the 84-member audience clapped.

"If people accept my ideas and me ... not somebody I am trying to be, or fits somebody else's mold of what they think the perfect candidate ought to be, then we can do some great things together," Thompson said.

"If I am not that cup of tea, then there's plenty of other people who are very ambitious out there that will accept your vote," which drew more applause.

January 3, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (2)

Thompson: 'Some of Us May Get Shellacked'

January 03, 2008 11:56 AM

ABC News' Christine Byun and Teddy Davis Report: Former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson seemed to acknowledge Thursday that a poor performance in Iowa could lead to an early departure from the presidential race.

"Some of us may get shellacked," said Thompson. "We've got to recognize the signals that we're given and respond accordingly. I expect a strong win. We'll see."

Thompson made his comments on MSNBC after Tim Russert asked him if it's "on to New Hampshire" regardless of what happens in Iowa.

While the former Law & Order actor hinted that a dropout could follow a shellacking, he also distanced himself from his recent expectation-setting, saying that his goal is not as simple as "second or out."

"People read a little too much into things like that," said Thompson.

"Somebody asked me do you need to finish third? That didn't sound very good. So I set my goal higher than that because I'm not going to play into any negative scenarios. I think we have a real opportunity to surprise some of the experts."

While campaigning in Ames, Iowa, on Dec. 30, Thompson told reporters, "I need to come in second."  By saying that he needed to come in second, Thompson risked setting a bar so high for himself that a third-place victory -- which would be something of an achievement for his struggling campaign -- would amount to a self-imposed disappointment. Under the rules that he seemed to set for himself in Ames, Thompson could beat Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani in the caucuses and still be setting himself up to drop out of the race.

During his morning show appearances on Caucus day, Thompson blamed others for stirring up rumors about whether he will withdraw.

"People try to drop these things on the eve of the election, try to suppress the other guy's vote, whatever genius activities these guys engage in with more money than judgment sometimes," Thompson said of the speculation on "Fox & Friends" this morning.

At his first event on Thursday, Thompson said his candidacy has always been about his desire to serve the country.

“Always remember, it’s not about me. It’s not about you. It’s not about Iowa, it’s not about Tennessee or New Hampshire or anywhere else, it’s about our country,†Thompson said to a room of two hundred supporters in West Des Moines.

He talked about unity within the Republican party to elect a candidate with a “longtime, solid, proven†conservative record and a leader who can “tell the truth.â€

Thompson said,“You’re electing a leader who will need to know the kind of world we’re living in today.â€

As he closed his speech, Thompson tried to champion his case: “Let’s go out and shock the world, let’s do something great for our country!â€

January 3, 2008 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (1)

Thompson Aims for Silver

January 02, 2008 4:12 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Fred Thompson is aiming for the silver.

When asked by a reporter with what Iowa caucus results he'd be "happy", the former Republican senator from Tennessee held up two fingers.

"Probably this position right here," Thompson drawled with a laugh, referring to a second place finish.

The former actor and lawyer spent only 34-minutes only the campaign trail on New Years Day, and is fourth in the most recent Des Moines Register poll but told reporters that he is "optimistic" and would "not going to talk about any specific scenarios."

"I think we'll do well, I think we'll surprise some folks," Thompson said.

Asked about a potential 'McSurge' spilling over from New Hampshire into Iowa for his rival Senator John McCain, R-Ariz., Thompson stayed neutral.

"I am not battling anybody for anything, except for the most number of votes," Thompson said.

He acknowledged McCain's foreign policy credentials, but noted shifting of poll results for all GOP candidates.

"There is one thing consistent about all the candidates: they have risen and fallen . . . None of us know which direction we're going in, so that's just what you call politics," Thompson said. "I can't explain him doing well anymore than I can explain him doing not so well for a long period of time."

Thompson -- who brought along his wife and four year-old daughter on the 2nd to last day of his  statewide tour -- found another familiar face at a campaign stop in Waterloo.

"I could use him," the candidate joked, pointing to a man, who bore a striking resemblence to Thompson, in the crowd gathered at a local restaurant.

"Do they ever tell you that you look like Fred Thompson?" Thompson said.

Thompson said the supporter, a local doctor who says he will caucus for Thompson, told him others have mistaken him for the former "Law and Order" actor and "it makes [him] mad," causing the room to fill with laughter.

January 2, 2008 in Hunter, Duncan, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (5)

Thompson Goes to the Web

December 31, 2007 12:40 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: As candidates rush to push last minute political commercials, Republican presidential candidate Fred Thompson is pitching to the web.

"It's kind of a unique thing, but you know we do things a little differently in this campaign and that's one of them," Thompson told reporters about his new webposting.

In his video, he delivers a 17 minute appeal to Iowans - calling it a chance to "talk quietly with you about the stakes in this election" - against a backdrop of flags.  It's essentially his stump speech - and the same message Thompson has been touting all along: his "consistent conservative" record.

"The fact of the matter is that the Republican Party is a conservative party.   That's the philosophy that's shaped us," Thompson says in the video, adding,"That's the philosophy we must champion if we are to win again in 2008."

Thompson's campaign - whose ads have been scarce on local airwaves - is hoping it will go viral to compete with his GOP rivals, who have been pushing new ads and unveiling new closing arguments as caucus day approaches. 

"They have been consistently inconsistent for some time now," Thompson said of the other GOP nominees, "So I don't know what they're doing these final days and don't much care."

December 31, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (0)

Thompson: 'I Need to Come in Second'

December 30, 2007 4:36 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: With the Iowa caucus date in sight, Republican candidate Fred Thompson said he needs to finish closer to the top of the heap this Thursday night.

"I need to come in second," Thompson told reporters at a campaign event in Ames, Iowa. (He has said he WANTS to finish second -  on CNN's American Morning - but today he said NEEDS to, which caused all of the traveling press to question his staff at length, post-avail. They didn't provide any further clarification.)

By declaring that he needs to do better than he's polled for months, Thompson risks setting a bar so high for himself that a third-place victory -- which would be something of an achievement for his struggling campaign -- is a self-imposed disappointment. Under his own rules, Thompson could beat Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani in the caucuses and still be setting himself up to drop out of the race.

For the past couple of days, Thompson, who has been polling behind rivals Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, has been trying to break ahead of the rest of the GOP nominees. When pressed by reporters, he would not speculate what would happen to his candidacy if he did not finish near the top.

Pacing in front of a crowd, the former Tennessee senator - dressed in a dark suit and maroon tie - laid out his pitch to another group of Iowans on his statewide tour. He says it's the same message he's been touting since his September announcement - and all his political career.

"I have been a strong consistent common sense conservative everyday of my political career," Thompson said. "That's not gonna change. I am not going to change. Let the political world swirl around me. Let everybody run their attack ads, spend their money ... But I am going to be the same ... I think that will serve us well in the end."

Thompson is relying on his record to convince voters to caucus for him Thursday night -- and said he believed "consistency" would be his party's success in uprooting next year's Democratic nominee.

When an audience member asked if Thompson could beat Senator Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., for the White House, Thompson joked, "Like a drum!" The audience laughed and clapped, but Thompson became serious as he discussed the Republican's chances for the White House next year. After cautiously acknowledging the Democratic nominee might not be Clinton, Thompson stressed that his party's nominee needs to avoid being "like a feather in the wind" and stand strong for their principles.

"Be yourself. Come with the ideas that you believe in. That's what people are looking for," Thompson said.

December 30, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (14)

Do You Have the 'Desire' to Be President?

December 29, 2007 1:48 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Republican presidential candidate Fred Thompson's 'desire' to become the next President was probed by an undecided caucus-goer during a campaign stop in Burlington, Iowa.

"You say what I wanna hear. My only problem with you and why I haven’t thrown all my support behind you is that I don’t know if you have the desire to be President. If I caucus for you next week, are you still going to be there two months from now?" asked the man, who said it was his second time at a campaign event for the former Tennessee senator.

Thompson nodded, sitting at a table with a local radio talk show host, who had been interviewing him during the morning event.

"In the first place, I got into the race about the time people normally get into the race, historically. I guess the others started the process a lot earlier this time," Thompson responded, quipping, "For some of them, they were juniors in high school."

Thompson – who announced his candidacy in September – described himself as not "a super-type A personality."  He said his campaign is not driven by his own "personal ambition," but by his hopes the country will elect the "best" candidate for the job.

"I will not be devastated if I don’t do this. I want people to have the best President that they can have," Thompson said, adding later, "I’m offering myself up."

He explained it further in his usual plain-spoken manner, using the analogy of a "marriage" between him and voters.

"You know, if one side of the marriage has to really be talked into the marriage, it probably ain't going to be a good deal for either one of them. But, if you mutually think this is a good thing, in this case, if you think this is a good thing for a country, we can have an opportunity to do some wonderful things together," Thompson said of his presidential hopes.

And if the country accepts Thompson’s "proposal?"

"You’ll probably have the disadvantage of someone who probably can't jump up and click their heels three times, but [I] will tell you the truth and you’ll know where your President stands all times," Thompson said.

December 29, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (36)

Thompson Boots Bhutto 'Apology'

December 28, 2007 1:34 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Fred Thompson doesn't think much of Mike Huckabee's politics or his sentiments.

Questioning Huckabee's response to the death of Benazir Bhutto, Thompson, R-Tenn., told a Pella, Iowa, crowd, "I am not sure what Governor Huckabee meant when he said we needed to apologize for this assassination. I am more concerned about people around the world would think when they see a presidential candidate was apologizing for assassination of the former Prime Minister Bhutto."

On Thursday in Florida, Huckabee, R-Ark., expressed "apologies" for the situation in Pakistan, and his campaign later clarified that their candidate meant "sympathies"

"I don't want that to be mistaken by other people around the world in terms of implication that the United States somehow owes someone an apology for that situation, that's hard to understand," Thompson added.

Eyebrows have also been raised at another Huckabee comment in the wake of Bhutto's assassination.

At "Meet Mike Huckabee" event Friday morning just down the street from Thompson, Huckabee clarified comments he made Thursday night suggesting that, in the wake of Benazir Bhutto's assassination, the U.S. be on the look out for illegal immigrants from Pakistan attempting to cross our borders.

"In light of what happened in Pakistan yesterday, it's interesting that there were more Pakistanis who illegally crossed the border than of any other nationality except for those immediately south of our border, 660 last year form Pakistan who came into our country illegally because we don't have secure borders," Huckabee said.

During a media availability after the event, one reporter suggested the comments might be seen as "ethnic bating."

Huckabee replied, "When I say single them out I'm making the observation that we have more Pakistani illegals coming across our border than of all other nationalities except those immediately south of the border. And in light of what's happening in Pakistan, it ought to give us pause as to why are so many illegals coming across these borders."

The governor claims his figure -- 660 Pakistani illegals crossing the border last year -- are from CIA and Immigration reports.

What is your reaction to Benazir Bhutto's death? How do you think this incident will influence Pakistan's future? Click here to talk back and join the debate.

And for all the day's politics -- what's happening in Iowa, New Hampshire, and the entire 2008 campaign trail -- read The Note every morning.

ABC News' Kevin Chupka contributed to this report.

December 28, 2007 in Giuliani, Rudy, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (16)

Fred Thompson: The Man Show

December 27, 2007 5:15 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: From his crowded Iowa headquarters, Fred Thompson hedged his bet on whether Hillary Clinton will be elected president in 2008.

"I'm equal opportunity," former senator Thompson, R-Tenn., told the crowd, "I have a daughter that I fully expect to be back out here in Iowa running for president someday. But this year, it's a man. Next year, it's gonna be a man. I see no one else that qualifies as President of the United States."

Thompson also talked terror in the wake of Benazir Bhutto's death.

Asserting the country is "one terrorist attack away from nuclear disaster", the actor turned politician emphasized his foreign policy experience, referencing "safe rooms" meetings in different countries with intelligence agents."

"Which man do you want to represent us to stand against this assault? Which man do we want to stand strong for our principles and our values?" Thompson asked.

Catch up on all the day's politics and the latest from the 2008 campaign trail every morning in The Note.

December 27, 2007 in Bush, George W., Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (3)

'Sioux City' Fred Hoping to Hit High Note in Iowa

December 21, 2007 1:21 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports:  Presidential candidate Fred Thompson is trying to hit a high note and strike a chord with Iowa voters in the final act before the state's Jan. 3 caucuses.

The former Tennessee senator, who has been trailing the GOP field in recent polls, is on the fifth day of a revamped 50-city bus tour of the Hawkeye State.

Thompson has been drawing sizable audiences and jumping into the crowds to shake hands and allow young supporters to climb on his lap for pictures.

He's has been hitting the trail with fervor -- but also with song.

In a Friday morning stop to a Sioux City coffeehouse, Thompson, a self-proclaimed John Wayne fan, broke into a rendition of the old Western tune, "Sioux City Sue."

When asked by ABC News if, on his third trip to Sioux City, he is starting to experience deja vu, Thompson laughed and said, "No, I just keep singing 'Sioux City Sue, swap my horse and dog for you...' you know, I've been singing that since I was a little boy. 'Ain't no girl as true as my sweet Sioux City Sue.'"

Then, another reporter asked him to hum the tune. The former actor broke into song.

"Sioux City Sue, Sioux City Sue... swap my horse and dog for you," Thompson warbled.

He then paused and said, "I think that's about all America can stand today."

During his Iowa tour, Thompson also picked up the support of the former Iowa state chair for Congressman Tom Tancredo, R-Colo., who officially dropped out of the race to the White House Thursday.

December 21, 2007 in Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (3)

Thompson's New Role: Tipton, Iowa Bank Teller?

December 19, 2007 3:56 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports:  GOP presidential candidate Fred Thompson and his wife, Jeri, mixed and mingled with residents of two Eastern Iowa towns, in a rare venture off the campaign's usual schedule of speeches and town hall meetings.

Donning a beige cowboy hat, the former Tennessee senator dropped by a local bank in Tipton, Iowa, surprising a customer waiting in his car for the drive-thru teller to help him.

"Sir, how much do you want?" Thompson asked, popping in front of the glass teller window. "We can't give you money, but we can make you promises!"

Thompson -- cautioning his wife to heed the icy patches on the sidewalks -- was met by random female passerbys who wanted a picture with a "good, strong man."

A local student waited for Thompson at a diner, school project in hand. The young girl, Abbi Smith, had made a poster of "Thompson facts," which he autographed.

The Thompsons then popped into an antiques store, where they admired a festive nutcracker display. Jeri laughed, recalling the time she took her husband and daughter Hayden to a ballet performance of "The Nutcracker," during which he fell asleep.

"Thanks, honey," Thompson deadpanned, turning to admire a poster on the wall.

The couple also visited Muscatine, where they chatted with families in a toy store as they browsed for Christmas presents for their kids.

December 19, 2007 in Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (2)

King Picks Thompson

December 17, 2007 11:21 AM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: As the endorsements continue to roll out, Rep. Steve King (R-IA) is standing behind Republican candidate Fred Thompson.

For Thompson – who has stalled in recent Iowa polls behind rivals Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney – it is a vital boost to his presidential hopes in the Hawkeye state.

Radio Iowa reports King – who considers illegal immigration his top priority – expressed "profound respect" for candidate Tom Tancredo, who he believes has "won this immigration issue." However, after a sleepless night of tossing and turning, he narrowed down his choices down to Romney and Thompson. He chose Thompson because he's the candidate he's "most comfortable with on the issues" and "believes in their core."

Thompson staff says the two men met in Washington DC in October. What was supposed to be a half-hour meeting turned into nearly two hours of the men discussing issues, according to campaign staffers. The two men have talked since the endorsement and according to a Thompson advisor, they will have King on "lockdown" for their statewide bus tour. The advisor says the campaign considers King "one of the true conservative leaders in the state" and says the nod of support will help bolster their efforts to convince caucus-goers that Thompson is the "clear conservative choice."

When King was asked about Thompson's much-discussed "fire in the belly" for the Republican nomination, King responded, "I'm kind of antidote for that," according to Radio Iowa.

December 17, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (0)

Thompson Weighs in on Huckabee's Rise

December 16, 2007 2:10 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: As he prepares to head out to Iowa, Republican presidential hopeful Fred Thompson weighed in on "Huckmentum" - the rise of former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee.

"We're gonna look back on it, and it's either going to be part of something big, or it's going to be a bubble ... We don't know the answer to that," Thompson said in an appearance on "Face the Nation."

He also continued to question Huckabee's record.

"If you look at his policies, liberal is the only word that comes to mind when he was governor," Thompson said, criticizing Huckabee for raising taxes while he governed in Arkansas.

However, Thompson recognized his fellow Southerner has been able to mobilize Christian conservatives, which Thompson acknowledged could "do you a lot of good politically."

When asked by host Bob Schieffer about another rival, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, Thompson said he’s unsure of "how you would determine Mitt would govern in the future, if you look at his past and where he stands today."

"Mitt’s taken different positions at different times before different audiences at different times of his plan and career," Thompson said, later adding, "With me, you know what you get. I am who I am and that’s who I’ve always been."

December 16, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (0)

Thompson Rallies Conservative Christians

December 14, 2007 5:38 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Standing inside the Mississippi State Capitol Rotunda, a cluster of conservative Christian leaders voiced their support for Republican candidate Fred Thompson, praising his “fortitude†of character.

“[Former] Senator Thompson’s pursuit of the presidency is not ego-driven … and [he] does not attempt to re-invent himself or change his language depending on his audience,†Reverend Phillip Knight said, adding, “It appears to me, the only candidate that can act, isn’t.â€

Knight and Dr. Benny Tate, founders of the Wesleyan Center for Strategic Studies, promise the endorsements of 100 conservative Methodist pastors in the coming days. They also say they have been calling Iowa-area church leaders, rallying support for the former Tennessee Senator, who has been overshadowed by fellow Southerner-in-the-running, Mike Huckabee.

Huckabee, a former Arkansas governor and Baptist minister, has been running ads emphasizing himself as a “Christian Leader.† Huckabee leads Thompson nationally and in recent polls in early-voting states.

“We don’t need a leader in the White House with a sporadic splash but we need a man with a steel spine,†Tate said.

After meeting with Thompson, the two men said they were impressed with the former Senator based on his stances on issues like abortion, same-sex marriage and U.S support for Israel. Tate says Thompson’s record as a “tax-cutter†also elevates his appeal as a presidential contender, one of the reasons why he’s supporting him over Huckabee.

“We believe Americans can manage their money better than their government can,†Tate said.

Knight, who says he has prayed with Thompson and his wife, Jeri, believes Thompson has been “mischaracterized†by Christian conservative leader, Dr. James Dobson, who questioned Thompson’s faith and candidacy in an email a couple months ago.

Christian conservative leader Gary Bauer, who was not present for the endorsement and is not endorsing a candidate at this time, says it’s not too late for Thompson. When reached by ABC News, Bauer said Thompson could “end up beating expectations.â€

“Fred Thompson would make a really strong president based on issues of concern to Christian conservatives,†Bauer said, explaining that Thompson’s support for appointing conservative judges has impressed him.

December 14, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (1)

Thompson Debate Tantrum: 'Monkey Business'

December 12, 2007 4:48 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Report: At a post-debate campaign stop, Republican candidate Fred Thompson explained his reason for refusing to answer a debate question by a show of hands, calling it "monkey business."

"I just decided that I wasn't going to engage in any of this monkey business that they like to engage us on sometimes -- making us look like trained monkeys reaching for peanut or something ... 30 seconds is brief enough and when they try to reduce your answer to just a hand raise -- I 'aint going to play that game," the former Tennessee senator said.

During this afternoon's debate, the GOP candidates were asked to raise their hands if they thought climate change was a serious threat caused by human activity. Thompson spoke up saying he didn't want to answer without time explain himself.

Thompson says he's gearing up for the next two weeks leading up to January 3rd.  When asked by reporters about his chances in the Iowa caucus, Thompson said he believes voters are "beginning to pay attention" now to the elections and feels he will be in "good shape."

"The real campaign is just beginning," Thomspon said.

December 12, 2007 in Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (45)

Thompson Campaign Attacks Romney

December 07, 2007 6:36 PM

ABC News' Jake Tapper Reports: Teeing off Romney's "faith" speech Thursday, the campaign of Fred Thompson today called Mitt Romney a "Believer of Convenience" and assailed his new campaign ad.

The Thompson campaign cited a host of media reviews of Romney's new ad -- in which he says he stood against abortion and same sex marriage and for things that were "politically incorrect" in Massachusetts.

Thompson's minions did so to portray Romney as a flip-flopper on social issues, including a charge that the ad "engages in revisionist history" (Washington Post) and "outlines positions that may renew charges of flip-flopping" (New York Times).

The campaign quoted Romney's speech, in which the former Massachusetts Governor said "Americans do not respect believers of convenience. Americans tire of those who would jettison their beliefs, even to gain the world."

Added the Thompson campaign, with snark, "We Couldn't Agree More."

December 7, 2007 in Palin, Sarah, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (3)

Thompson v. Huckabee on Intel Report

December 07, 2007 2:49 PM

ABC News' Jake Tapper and Christine Byun Report: At a press conference in Columbus, Ohio, Friday, former Sen. Fred Thompson, R-Tenn., slammed his rival for the GOP presidential nomination, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, for earlier in the week not having heard that a new National Intelligence Estimate, or NIE, challenged the notion Iran had suspended its nuclear program in 2003.

"Not only is Iran the major long-term threat to our country, the nuclear program is the most important part of the Iran consideration," Thompson said. "For a presidential candidate not to know that and not to keep up with that is very surprising. These are the kinds of things I've been talking about all of my life."

Thompson then took direct aim at Huckabee, who despite meager campaign funds and a skeletal campaign staff, leads Thompson in polls of Republican voters in Iowa and New Hampshire.

"If the American people have other priorities, if they want someone who smiles a lot more than I do, or someone who is a better quipster than I am, who has no experience in these areas, that's for the American people to decide," Thompson said.

On Tuesday, more than a day after the Bush administration released the NIE, Huckabee admitted to journalists that he hadn't heard the report.

"I don't know to what extent you have been briefed or been able to take a look at the NIE report that came out yesterday," asked a reporter.

"I’m sorry?" Huckabee asked.

"The NIE report," the reporter explained, "the National Intelligence Estimate on Iran. Have you been briefed or been able to take a look at it?"

"No," responded Huckabee.

"Have you heard of the finding?" he was asked.

"No," Huckabee said.

Huckabee has since been briefed on the NIE and has called the query an "ambush question."

December 7, 2007 in Giuliani, Rudy, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (2)

Thompson Flier in Iowa Attacks Huckabee

December 07, 2007 11:15 AM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: "Why is Mike Huckabee attacking Fred Thompson?" asks a new flier sent out in Iowa this week by the Thompson campaign.

But, it is the former Tennessee Senator and GOP hopeful who has launched criticism of former Gov. Mike Huckabee, R-Ark., who leads Thompson in the most recent Iowa polls.

The fliers, which were mailed to Iowa voters Tuesday, tie the former Arkansas governor to another former Arkansas governor -- former President Bill Clinton.

The mailer features side-by-side profile pictures of both Huckabee and Bill Clinton, say the two "share a D lifetime rating for their tax and spend policies."

The flier also states Huckabee, "talks like a Republican but taxes like a Democrat," while outlining Thompson's tax relief plan, which includes several tax cuts. 

This flier is the latest outreach to Iowa voters by the Thompson campaign as January 3rd approaches. Despite airing television ads in the state, Thompson has yet to gain momentum in the polls in Iowa.

He heads to Iowa today for his sixth visit to the early-voting state.

December 7, 2007 in Giuliani, Rudy, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (0)

Rivals React to Romney Religion Speech

December 06, 2007 10:05 AM

ABC News' Z. Byron Wolf, Christine Byun, Kevin Chupka and Bret Hovell Report: Religion takes center stage on Thursday in the race for the Republican presidential nomination as former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney makes an address on faith in Texas.

Romney, R-Mass., the only Mormon in the race, won't discuss the specifics of his religion but will instead focus on the role of faith in politics.

Watch ABC News' Jake Tapper from "Nightline" on the God vote in 2008 by clicking here or you can read the full story by clicking here.

Rep. Ron Paul, R-Tex., seemingly the libertarian conscience of the Republican party this election season, defended his GOP rival.

"The recent attacks and insinuations, both direct and subtle, that Gov. Romney may be less fit to serve as president of our United States because of his faith fly in the face of everything America stands for. Gov. Romney should be judged fairly, on his record and his character, not on the church he attends," said Paul in a written statement.

Paul said he came "to my faith through Jesus Christ and have accepted him as my personal savior," but questions whether religious groups should carry so much sway in the party and explained why his own Christianity has not been on display in his campaign.

"We live in times of great uncertainty when men of faith must stand up for American values and traditions before they are washed away in a sea of fear and relativism. I have never been one who is particularly comfortable talking about my faith in the political arena, and I find the pandering that typically occurs in the election season to be distasteful."

Paul has not always been so standoffish about how religion in the public discourse, especially where it comes to political correctness.

In a 2003 Christmas-themed op-ed entitled "The War on Religion", he complained that the "once commonplace refrain of "Merry Christmas" has been replaced by the vague, ubiquitous "Happy Holidays."

Paul asked, "Why have we allowed the secularists to intimidate us into downplaying our most cherished and meaningful Christian celebration?"

Later in that op-ed he argued that church should actually be more important in the lives of Americans than the state.

Read more on Romney's big speech and all the day's politics every day in The Note.

Republican candidate former Sen. Fred Thompson, R-Tenn., declined to talk about the address during an interview with an Iowa radio station Thursday, saying he would "hate to punt" without hearing the speech for himself, but said he was "tivo-ing" the speech. 

Instead, Thompson talked about his own faith which he stated "has to do with everything I do and everything I hope to be."

"Our Constitution and the Declaration of Independence remind us our basic liberties come from God, not from government," he said, "and I look at the things that the Founding Fathers relied upon as they were writing the Constitution. There's total consistency there with our form of government and the things we believe in and the things I believe in personally."

In an interview on NBC's "Today" show before the speech, former Gov. Mike Huckabee, R-Ark., was asked whether he thought Romney's Mormonism would have any impact on whether or not he would make a good president.

"None whatsoever" Huckabee answered, "I think it's a matter of what his views are, whether they're consistent, whether they're authentic, just like mine are." He added "It has nothing to do with what faith a person has. It's whether or not that person's life is consistent with how he lives it."

On his campaign bus Thursday night, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., suggested former Gov. Mike Huckabee's, R-Ark., rise in the polls in Iowa led Romney to make the speech before the Iowa caucuses.

"He knows there's a strong voting bloc in Iowa that call themselves 'Christian conservatives,'" McCain said. "He's always been trying to appeal to them. I saw some of his mailers, stuff out there. I think that Huckabee's rise in the polls is clearly an impact on a lot of people's strategic thinking."

"I think he made a statement that people are going to ask him about it, that you can't have freedom without religion," McCain said. "Well, I can understand the point that might be made that it's part of fundamental Judeo-Christian values. But I did know people in prison [as a POW in Vietnam] ... who were atheists and they were patriots and served the country and they did so with distinction."

December 6, 2007 in McCain, John, Palin, Sarah, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (2)

Southern Protestors Unhappy with Thompson and Romney's Flag Remarks

December 05, 2007 8:54 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: As GOP presidential hopeful Fred Thompson wrapped his South Carolina campaign visit, he had a small handful of protesters outside his event at a Lexington, South Carolina restaurant.

About four men held confederate flags and signs that said "Honk for Dixie" and "The South Does Not Want Fred Thompson."

The men said they were part of the South Carolina League of the South and speaking out against Thompson and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney for recent remarks about something dear to their hearts. At the November 28 CNN/YouTube debate, both candidates said they did not believe the Confederate flag should be flown in a public place. The two Republican hopefuls, who are among the leaders in Palmetto State polls, also said the flag wrongfully divides the country.

"When a Southerner goes bad, we call him a scallywag. Thompson's a scallywag - he deserves no respect," Jim Hanks, who identified himself as a registered Independent, said. A scallywag is a white southerner who supported the federal government during Reconstruction. Hanks also said he was interested in Thompson, but now supports Ron Paul.

The group also lashed out at Romney - who called the flag was "divisive" at the debate - for being a "carpetbagger."

"Most people think the flag is a racist symbol. I would say not in South Carolina, we don't. Not in the South, we don't. We don't vote for people that say negative things about the Confederate flag," Don Gordon, a protestor who wore a Confederate flag tie, said.

The group intends to protest every campaign stop in South Carolina for both candidates.

"Yesterday, we were at Mitt Romney's headquarters because Mitt Romney insulted our flag," Hanks said. "We'll try to be everywhere they are."

The group was at one of four Thompson campaign stops today. Thompson spokesman Jeff Sadosky said they will pay no attention to the protestors.

"South Carolina voters know where Senator Thompson stands on the issue, and that's what's important," Sadosky said.

December 5, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (66)

Thompson 'Skeptical' of NIE Findings

December 04, 2007 4:53 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: As he toured a South Carolina gun shop, Republican candidate Fred Thompson commented on the recent National Intelligence Estimate report on Iran.

“I am skeptical about it,†the former senator of Tennessee said about the new assessment which reports Iran's nuclear program has been frozen since 2003.

Thompson said he hoped they were “accurate,†but expressed reservations about the strength of the nation’s intelligence gathering.

“One of the biggest problems we got in this country is the fact we let our intelligence capabilities wither,†Thompson said, stressing the country needs to focus on both technology and “human intelligence.â€

He also said that he is wary of the Iranian government’s intentions, warning that “they want us to kind of relax a little bit.â€

“Once you get a full-fledged piece of your nuclear capability and program, it’s not very far to go, to turn it into a weapons program. It mainly has to do with the intent of people involved … and that involves trusting the Iranians, which of course, nobody who loves freedom and liberty should do,†Thompson said.

Thompson, who is campaigning for the next two days in the Palmetto State, also brushed off the push-polling calls some have received in Iowa which attack his past lobbying career. The automated phone calls criticize GOP candidates while praising former Governor Mike Huckabee, who has pushed past Thompson in recent Iowa polls. 

“If they wanna do that, let’s let them come out and do it. It’s another part of modern-day campaigning that gets pretty rough sometimes, pretty deceptive sometimes. But I give people enough credit to know how politics work and how politicians work. I would just say at the end of they day, go back and check everybody’s record,†Thompson said.

December 4, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (0)

Radio Host Swipes at Clinton During Thompson Event

December 01, 2007 5:56 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun reports: While warming up the crowd for a Fred Thompson rally, a former Los Angeles AM radio host took a swipe at Hillary Clinton just a day after a man took staffers hostage in her Rochester, N.H. field office.

"Some nut job broke in there, took hostages and apparently threatened to blow himself up unless he got a chance to speak to Hillary. Now, I found this rather odd because I always feel like blowing myself up after hearing Hillary Clinton speak," John Ziegler said. The audience laughed and applauded.

Ziegler quickly added, "By the way, the opinions expressed during this portion of the presentation are not necessarily those of Fred Thompson, the Fred Thompson campaign or anyone affiliated in the Republican party."

Later, GOP hopeful Fred Thompson took the stage and talked about his stance on national security and tax reform before a crowd of 300 supporters in Laguna Woods, California.

Thompson -- who spent Saturday fundraising in Southern California - received warm support from the crowd, even when he mistakenly said "death penalty" when speaking about one of his tax proposal’s main thrusts: repealing the death tax.

"We ought to retain all those tax cuts and we ought to get rid of the death penalty while we’re doing it," Thompson said, as the audience applauded despite the gaffe.

He then corrected himself by saying he meant "the death tax, of course."

"We need to apply the death penalty to those who would…" Thompson said, trailing off as the audience again laughed, adding, "But, you knew what I was talking about." 

December 1, 2007 in Richardson, Bill | Permalink | User Comments (27)

Thompson Defends Attack Ad

November 29, 2007 5:07 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: Fred Thompson's YouTube-sque video, which debuted at Wednesday's Republican debate, did not feature one second of his deep Southern drawl, but his message was clear.

"It's a very secret strategy," former Senator Thompson, R-Tenn., dryly said of the spot, which the campaign is running on its website, "Seriously, I just wanted to point out what these gentlemen were saying all their political careers up until they decided to run for president."

Watch the first attack ad of the GOP race by clicking here.

The video aims fire at his Republican rivals former governors Mike Huckabee, R-Ark., and Mitt Romney, R-Mass., and former mayor Rudy Giuliani, R-N.Y. (though the shots aimed in Giuliani's direction were saved for the extended web-version).

Using their own words from past public appearances, Thompson's web spot shows their evolved stances on abortion and taxes.

The video asks, "During the Republican Revolution, Fred Thompson was leading as a proud conservative. What were the others doing?"

At a press conference in Phoenix on Thursday, Thompson said of its intent: "Most of the leading candidates seem like they have different views now, than they had like a year or two years ago .... question is, do you look at their record of several years or do you look at what they say now to determine what they're gonna do?"

November 29, 2007 in Dodd, Chris, Giuliani, Rudy, Palin, Sarah, Richardson, Bill, Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (2)