He basically skipped New Hampshire, as many candidates do in various states. For better or worse, they decide not to expend the resources there.
This isn't that complicated, but Hollywood Reporter isn't really known for their political analysis.
But has he been campaigning in South Carolina?
I had hunted around for Thompson events, and even Thompson signholders, in downtown Manchester. He did not have much of a presence here. Many Hillary hacks and even some Huckubines, though.