The American Spectator

It would be shocking if Thompson’s numbers didn’t go up in the week he anounced. If you look at Rudy’s numbers(depending on the poll at issue) after the time he indicated in January that he was serious about running( he never “announced”) we went up more than 10 pts. For example we went from 31% to a sky high 44% in Gallup on 3/2/07. There is huge volitility nationally and the scant state polling out this week shows less movement(e.g. LAT/ Bloomberg). So maybe he’s improved his standing and maybe not but we won’t know for a month or so. (Much more important number: that October 15 fundraising figure.)

Aside from a pleasing personality I’m not seeing Thompson’s strengths yet but there is time and it isn’t too late to gin up some good policy ideas, polish the verbal skills, and hire significant staff in key states once he figures out his electoral strategy (after visiting Iowa and NH they now have “low expectations” there, according to his campaign). One last thought: Thompson visiting Florida on Rosh Hashana not so smart, nu?

UPDATE: This description of a Thompson stop in Iowa is quite vivid:

“Thompson’s performance drew mixed reviews. Laconic by nature, and intent on proving his disdain for the mundane exertions of public life, he seemed half-asleep at times. Ambling onto the stage, he spoke in deep, almost mournful tones about terrorism, profligate spending and bureaucracy; about his Tennessee roots and his ‘core values.’ Then he ambled to the bus.”

Call me silly but I think “sleepy” is not a good adjective for a president. I jest, but this hysterical satire could only be written about one candidate.