Tommy Thompson? Previous Governor of Wisconsin (four terms!) staunch Republican. Excellent reformer. Personable, with a wonderful wife, who may be a problem; she hates politics and is a teacher, so is a tad liberal. Was pulled away from us by President Bush to be HSS Secretary, but he's not a "Small Fish in a Big Pond" kind of guy. He wants to be a "Big Fish in a Big Pond" kind of guy.
He's got three or so years to feel things out. Knowing him, he'll tire of the private sector within a few years. Don't rule him out. I'd vote for him in a heartbeat for President! He's truly a "Compassionate Conservative."
http://www.hhs.gov/about/bios/dhhssec.html
"Secretary Thompson has dedicated his professional life to public service, most recently serving as governor of Wisconsin since 1987. Secretary Thompson made state history when he was re-elected to office for a third term in 1994 and a fourth term in 1998.
During his 14 years as governor, Secretary Thompson focused on revitalizing Wisconsin's economy. He also gained national attention for his leadership on welfare reform, expanded access to health care for low-income people, and education.
In 1996, Secretary Thompson enacted Wisconsin Works, or "W-2," the state's landmark welfare-to-work legislation, which served as a national model for welfare reform. The program required participants to work, while at the same time providing the services and support to make the transition to work feasible and permanent. W-2 provided a safety net through child care, health care, transportation and training assistance. Wisconsin's monthly welfare caseload declined by more than 90 percent, while the economic status of those taking part in W-2 improved. The average family on AFDC had been 30 percent below the federal poverty line. However, at the average wage of people leaving W-2, families were 30 percent above the poverty line."
Hi Diana,
I really don't think Tommy is viable. For one, he's not very savvy. Look at his "I'm surprised the food supply hasn't been hit yet, it's such an easy target" [paraphrase] departing remarks as Secretary of Health and Human Services. I'm thinking that, in and of itself, is the end of Tommy's political aspirations.
For another, he's a jerk.
Sadly, there was a time I might have considered voting for him for president. But that would have been mainly to get rid of him as governor...
I know, I know. I'm republican, conservative, Christian. Probably shouldn't say such things. Nothing personal, because I can tell you have respect for the man. He just never managed to earn mine.