Thompson's Pain, McCain's Gain?

According to Politico's Jonathan Martin, if Fred Thompson doesn't place a "strong third" in Iowa, he may drop out and endorse John McCain.

A Thompson endorsement would give McCain some cover on his right flank, especially on issues like immigration; in a perfect storm of events, it might give McCain a critical boost in New Hampshire...

What's Newt Up To?

Earlier this week, former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich went absolutely ballistic on the Republican presidential field, comparing them to pygmies, as well as blasting the "debates" that have become a de rigeur component of the political process without providing anything substantive. Despite all of that, he continued to play coy on the possibility of his seeking the nomination, though the likelihood of him entering the race has been seen to diminish in recent months.

And now in what's truly an intriguing development, it emerges that at least one member of his inner circle has departed to work for Fred Thompson, and that Gingrich and his (third wife) Callista recently had a policy-fueled double date with the Senator and his wife Jeri. The ladies aren't as imposed upon as one might expect (and indeed have a lot in common), given that Callista was a Hill staffer when she met Gingrich and that Jeri is a reputable media consultant in her own right. So what's going on here? Politico's Jonathan Martin suggests that Gingrich may endorse Thompson, though not until October (remember that the possibility of a Thompson endorsement from McCain is also possible, if the Arizona Senator withdraws from the race).

This to me is a very appealing pairing (though never in a formal setting - Gingrich as VP would sink the ticket), given that Newt really is the "ideas man" of the GOP, a title he's never relinquished since the Contract with America, and Fred seems to be the favorite among conservatives. Mr. Popular and Mr. Brains - is this the start of (some sort of) beautiful friendship?

Another Anti-Fred Offensive

We're six months out from Iowa, sixteen from the general. Yet that hasn't stopped the New York Times from already going after families and spouses - this time Fred Thompson's second wife Jeri, whom they have the "class" to call a trophy wife. They go on:

The question may seem sexist, even crass, but serious people — as well as Mr. Thompson’s supporters — have been wrestling with the public reaction to Jeri Kehn Thompson, whose youthfulness, permanent tan and bleached blond hair present a contrast to the 64-year-old man who hopes to win the hearts of the conservative core of the Republican party. Will the so-called values voters accept this union?

Thanks to CQ for picking up this story, and Captain Ed is right to note "the concern that Susan Saulny and the Paper of Record show for "values voters", a group that normally received little but scorn and ridicule from Pinch's crew." Yup. Of course to many in America, an attack from the Times is akin to an endorsement. And if you're going to attack one candidate's spouse, wouldn't you pick the one who isn't a high-powered media consultant?

Okay It's Official

I've given in and am supporting Fred Thompson for the Republican nomination. I like Rudy Giuliani a lot, but the man has a lot of baggage. For a lot of reasons, I think Fred has the best shot of winning our party's nomination, as well as winning the White House in 2008. I hope you'll do the same.

[Yes, this means there will now be a Fred Thompson post tag. Yes there will be a lot more articles.]