Free Republic

(October 18, 2004) North Carolina poll: Bush 50%, Kerry 47% [Actual Result: 56% to 44% for Bush]

It's a shrewd move by Thompson, one that gets his face in front of the public and allows him to participate in the event, but on his terms. He'll overshadow the debate, the second time he's managed to do that, and give himself a little more time to prepare properly for his first debate. After this, though, Thompson has to fully engage. Once his announcement is made, he will have to show some fire on the campaign trail. His appearance in Minnesota showed that he's building up to a fast start, but it will also have to be near-flawless. He...