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.
topics:
Satire
