It’s over:

McLean, VA – Senator Fred Thompson today issued the following statement about his campaign for President:

“Today I have withdrawn my candidacy for President of the United States. I hope that my country and my party have benefited from our having made this effort. Jeri and I will always be grateful for the encouragement and friendship of so many wonderful people.”

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Yesterday, I noted the first of many defections. It’ll be interesting to see where the rest of the Fred operatives scatter.

Speaking of scattering, where will the 12 percent of voters favoring Thompson in Florida go?

Bob Krumm took heat for his post-mortem. Looks like he’s owed some apologies.

I’ll repeat what Fred said in South Carolina after his disappointing showing:

“…we need to deserve to lead. That’s what this is all about. Deserving to lead…We’ll always stand strong. Stand strong.”

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For what it’s worth to you (not much to me), Thompson supporter Al D’Amato goes to McCain.