Why Fred Thompson Appeals

"By Craig A. Hammond

Former U.S. Senator Fred Thompson appeals to many Republican voters who have no clear favorite in the current crop of GOP candidates for one overriding reason:

Simply, put, they think Thompson can win the whole shooting match next November.

The other GOP candidates have their merits and may even have individual strengths which override Thompson on a given issue. For example, former NYC Mayor Giuliani is the only Presidential candidate who can lay claim to leading the effort at Ground Zero from day one at 9/11. That's impressive.

John McCain had his mettle tested over six years as a P.O.W. in Vietnam and has managed to not only recover but flourish as a multi-term U.S. Senator from Arizona. His independent spirit is attractive in many ways.

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee and U.S. Senator Sam Brownback articulate clearly the values shared not only by social conservatives in the Republican Party but many other Americans who watch with concern as their children are exposed to more violence and gratuitous sex on the public airwaves. We need their continued passion for a better society.

And Mitt Romney, former Governor of Massachusetts and "the man who saved the Salt Lake City Olympic Games" has an impressive resume as a manager of budgets and people.

However, none of them can communicate the big picture to the people like Fred Thompson can. Whether this comes from his family upbringing in the South, his careers in government service and acting, or just his own individual personality, Thompson conveys strength in that singular way only some leaders can.

People seem to actually derive strength and even energy from Thompson's own presentations, from his deeply-held belief in America and Americans. No one else has that going for them.

That is why the comparison with Ronald Reagan is so often made. Sure, both were actors and involved in politics, but it is the chords they strike with the electorate that makes them soul brothers."

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