January 22nd, 2008
02:27 PM ET
12 years ago
Thompson drops out of GOP presidential race
Thompson had a disappointing showing in the GOP's South Carolina primary. (Photo Credit: AP)
In a statement issued by his campaign, Fred Thompson said:
"Today I have withdrawn my candidacy for President of the United States.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."
Huckabee will be next.........
Well Fred. It was nice knowing you. You seem like a nice guy, but just not Presidential material.
Fred Thompson could have made a great president, but he didn't seem like he really wanted the job. I love his politics, but his lack of drive was a real letdown.
Fred wasted about 5 months of his life running for a the most important job in the world, knowing he did not really want to. He jumped in this race way too late. Look for him to endorse his former colleage John McCain.
Well, what will this now do for/to Mike Huckabee/John McCain? Many feel that Thompson siphoned votes off of Huckabee in South Carolina, which helped McCain win. Thompson dropping out could mean a boost for Huckabee to get more of the evangelical vote (there are a lot in Florida).
I still see Romney taking Florida.
OH NO! He can't, wait- Fred who is dropping out of what?
Bout Time!!!
I'm sorry to hear that Fred has dropped out. I thought he was a good candidate. Looks like I will be voting for Mitt now.
Fred who?
Loved Fred, but he lost me back in November!
Despite a possible McCain endorsement we might see many of his conservative supporters supporting Romney in his bid for the nomination. This could very well be a big boost to Romney.
Argh. Now I really have no clue who to vote for, Thompson was the only candidate I believed it.
It is about time...he hasn't done particulrly well anywhere. I hope that Guiliani loses Florida and that he drops out and stops exploiting 9/11 at every occasion
I think his sick mom has something to do with this.
Goodbye to the only real conservative. Huckabee supporters will be sorry!
One crazy conservative down, unfortunately at least 5 to go.
Poor GOP. They have ZERO good or viable canidates.
This is the best news I have heard all day!
About Time.
He won't be missed.
Finally, the Republican playing field is closing up. Hopefully Huckabee and Paul will drop out soon and leave it up to Giuliani, McCain, and Romney. For my peace of mind, it will be better to have three on both sides of the aisle before Super Tuesday.
Actually, Guilliani will be next
That is sad!! I would have voted for you!!
Wait...was he even really running?
He woke up long enough to issue a statement?
Correction, Giuliani will be next