So far his impact has been on Romney and Hunter even among Freepers (check current poll). If Thompson fails to run, he will likely have squashed these two as contenders, leaving no one to take on Giuliani and McCain. Newt is not going to run. The other wannabees dont stand a chance.
So, you think if Fred decides not to run all those previous Hunter/Romney supporters will switch to Giuliani or McCain? That's non-sensical.