Is "Law and Order's" Fred Thompson Running For President?



Law and Order's Fred Thompson is certainly a popular Republican and, to boot, a former Senator. With a Presidential field that is rapidly becoming Dadist in its denseness, Thompson may be another name to remember. From Alexander Bolton of TheHill:

"Former Senate Majority Leader Howard Baker (R-Tenn.) is contacting powerbrokers in the Republican Party to build support for a 2008 presidential campaign by his one-time protégé, former Sen. Fred Thompson (R-Tenn.).

"Baker, who Wednesday made a visit to the Senate, was asked by several Republicans about his involvement on Thompson’s behalf.

“He said, ‘I am making a few calls and I think it’s a great idea,’ said one Senate Republican who heard Baker discuss his efforts to advance Thompson’s prospects.

"One Republican who discussed a possible bid with Thompson described his interest and Baker’s queries as 'a friendly exploration.'

"... Thompson, who once chaired the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee, is now best known to Americans for his role as District Attorney Arthur Branch on NBC’s 'Law & Order' and his role in 'The Hunt for Red October.' But he has remained active politically. Last year he appeared in ads supporting Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), who won a tough race against former Rep. Harold Ford (D-Tenn.). With Thompson’s help, Libby’s legal defense fund has raised close to $4 million. Thompson has said he will soon hold another fundraiser for Libby.

"Rumors about Thompson running for president have filtered into Republican circles during the last several weeks. One lobbyist who recently asked Thompson about his plans said that Thompson merely smiled and replied, 'I’m keeping my powder dry.'"

(TheHill)