South Carolina Thursday news roundup

COLUMBIA, South Carolina (CNN) - Here's a quick look at what's making political news this morning in South Carolina:

Rudy Giuliani popped into West Columbia for about 45 minutes Wednesday afternoon to meet a small group of supporters at his headquarters. SC Hotline has the video, in which he talks about his Pat Robertson endorsement.

But perhaps more relevant to today's news cycle: There was a lone protester in a Giuliani mask outside the event, holding up a "FREE BERNIE" sign. Bernie Kerik, that is. Which rival campaign put him up to it?

Bill Richardson's campaign is re-directing staff from South Carolina to Iowa, signaling that Iowa is a must-win for Richardson.

Dan Hoover examines how Fred Thompson is pitching himself as the real conservative in the Republican race, despite several high-profile Christian endorsements for his opponents this week.

John O'Connor at The State asks: "Will surging Thompson run out of steam?"

Thompson also likes grits.

And in case you missed Mitt Romney's appearance with Big Eddie on Wednesday morning, check out the photos here.

– CNN South Carolina Producer Peter Hamby