I think Thompson and his meek withdrawal from the race carry
several lessons. First, being president and running for president
take more than saying the "right" things. There are personal
attributes --drive, determination, leadership and organizational
skills -- that matter. The presidency is not the same (though some
of us wish differently) as being a thoughtful pundit. It is an
executive and leadership position. Second, campaigns tell us
something about how people will perform in office. Are they
steadfast and brave or lazy or groveling? Pay attention because
adults rarely change their basic personality and character. Third,
will this matter? Thompson's appeal seemed to overlap most closely
with Huckabee. Both attracted southerners and social conservatives.
However, disaffected Romney voters who found Thompson more
appealing may now gravitate back to Romney. Or they may disperse
among many candidates. Finally, many of my colleagues and readers
will note that I was quite critical of his non-campaign and his
ineffective efforts once he entered but I take no joy in being
"right." He is an honorable and decent person with consistent and
well thought out positions. He'll be missed.
