The officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said Thompsom will serve out his term, which expires next January. One Republican Senate official said the lawyer and former actor was resigning for personal reasons dealing with his family.
Thompson's daughter, Elizabeth, died Jan. 20 from a brain injury following a heart attack. She was 38.
Asked by a reporter Friday if he planned to seek re-election, Thompson replied: "I have nothing to say about that now." He indicated there would be a statement later.
Calling on Tennessee freepers - what's the skinny out there?
When is the primary? Who is running already?