The MSM is all over Thompson today with shocking stories (such at the one below). Via a “news analysis” from the AP we learn that Fred Thompson banks on style:
Fred Thompson’s easygoing, no-nonsense style is clearly his strength and undoubtedly has helped him soar in presidential polls. It may only get him so far.Sooner or later, the all-but-declared candidate will have to answer the question: What else do you offer?
Well, no kidding.
Indeed, if one wants a clue as to why Thompson is doing so well in the polls one need look no further than the following:
His stump speech consists of broad conservative themes, talk of bipartisanship and commentary on issues of the day, but it largely lacks any vision for the future of the country. He deflects questions on what a Thompson presidency would look like and demurs when pressed for specific proposals for how to fix the nation’s ills. He opines on hot topics, from taxes to terrorism, in online columns and on his Web site, usually without being challenged. His campaign-trail time is minimal, largely limited to giving speeches at state GOP events.Aides say he has plenty of time to project his vision, and internal policy discussions are occurring.
When voters are dissatisfied with a specific crop of candidates, and a well spoken outsider (in terms of being outside the current pack) emerges and speaks in generalities that allow voters to project upon him what they want him to be, it is hardly a surprise that he does well in the polls. The bottom line is that voters really don’t know enough about Thompson to make a determination , they just hope that they do.
Indeed, have yet to emerge from the prologue of the Thompson campaign to star the first full act.
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July 7th, 2007 at 11:09 am
[...] Cross-posted from PoliBlog: [...]