June 13, 2007

GOP 2008: Room Enough For Two Thompsons?

Tommy Thompson can't catch a break.

The former Wisconsin governor, who just debuted his first broadcast ad of the cycle, entered the GOP race for the White House with one of the most diverse resumes: respected Midwestern governor for four terms, former Bush Cabinet member, private sector policy wonk.

But despite months of traipsing through the Hawkeye State (his goal has been to visit every county), Thompson's Iowa strategy was dealt a blow last week when Republican front-runners Rudy Giuliani and John McCain announced they were skipping the closely watched Ames straw poll this August. Their departure means current Iowa leader Mitt Romney is expected to take that contest easily.

And then there's that other Thompson guy, Fred (no relation), whose weekly exposure on NBC's "Law and Order" means he's easily the more recognizable Thompson among primary voters. A Zogby poll of Iowa Republicans last month had Tommy Thompson in fifth place overall and 5 points below Fred Thompson -- who hadn't even formed an exploratory committee at that point.

Tommy Thompson may lack a glamorous role on network television, but he has initiated a broadcast presence of his own: a new radio ad airing on conservative talk stations throughout the Hawkeye State. The no-frills spot features Thompson spelling out his three-point plan to bring stability to Iraq. See NationalJournal.com's Ad Spotlight (subscription) for details.

Despite this initial advertising push, however, Thompson's future in the race remains uncertain. His campaign has scheduled a teleconference for 3 p.m. EDT this afternoon to make a "major announcement" about the future of his bid. Stay tuned to The Gate for more details after the presser.

Posted at 1:01 PM
Posted to: Campaigns, Fred Thompson, Republicans, Tommy Thompson, WH 2008
Share via