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"Today I have withdrawn my candidacy for President of the United States.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."
One less idiot thinking he can be president.
When are the Democratic bottom candidates dropping out?
Who will he endorse?
I hope Gulliani will be next.
I sure hope he endorses Romney over McCain!!
With Fred out, it looks like we can all finally come together on Mitt Romney, the only true conservative still in the race!
This is down to Romney or McCain...total no brainer here. Huck and Rudy will drop out after poor showings in Florida.
Thompson started his campaign way too late.
I wonder who he'll endorse
I am sorry to hear Fred is dropping out of the race. Thank you for your service to our country, the American people made a huge mistake in not supporting him.
It's not like he was ever really "in" the race to begin with.
I didn't realize he was running.
I'm black. I'll vote GOP this time
...but Hillary could actually BEAT Huckabee...
I didn't know he was running...
He was never really in the race.
What a waste of time and money he came into the race late and is the first to go, sad...LOL.
Gone are the days when a southern drawl and a smile can win you the White House. Perhaps Sam Waterston will will you your old job back?
It's about time, he never had a chance!
Bye bye, Fred. We'll miss your ... uh ...
No, we won't miss you.
Next in order – Guiliani, Huckabee, Romney. I don't think Ron Paul is going to drop his bid. But it will be hard for Mccain to beat Hillary. I HOPE he wins.
I really did not count on hearing this. I was so hopeful that Fred would stick in there until Super Tues. Anything can happen. The way the candidates are beating up on each other, I think people are finally tired of it. It really seems like so many people here in Tennessee are for Fred. I hope that this is not true, but if it is I still have so much faith in Mr. Thompson, that I really hope he will run for vice president. Please Fred stick in there until Super Tues. I am so sorry to hear about your Mother. I understand if this has helped you make up your mind on getting out of the race. God Bless you and your family. Linda Harmon
Thompson has my respect, even though I wouldn't have voted for him.
Yeah, this is way overdue. I'm suprised he stayed in for as long as he did.
Can't they all just quit and let McCain win? I love him so much!