GraniteGrok: **ATTENTION** GraniteGrok readers invited to submit questions to Fred Thompson

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« My Dog's a Pretty Darn Good Writer, eh? | Main | Star Trek tricorder? »

ATTENTION GraniteGrok readers invited to submit questions to Fred Thompson

While I was somewhat critical of Fred Thompson for timing the official announcement declaring his candidacy for the Republican presidential nomination the day AFTER tonight's Granite State GOP debate, I still think that there's something to be said for running a non-conventional campaign in our present time. Given the length of time the present contest has already racked up, a case can be made that ordinary, non-politically orientated people might already be weary of the seemingly long presence of the existing aspirants. ("I'm Mitt Romney, and I approved this message.") There just might be an opening in the pack. People may be ready for a new face, and a new way of campaigning...

Revealing that he brings more than a new name into the mix, the Thompson campaign has thrown a new twist into what has become a normal piece of Republican presidential campaigning here in New Hampshire: the "town meeting" style campaign event. You know the routine-- the candidate comes to town, gives a stump speech, and then takes questions from the audience. It makes for interesting and lively exchanges at times, and is a piece of the nominating process that I have come to appreciate. The only problem is, if you can't physically be in attendence, you don't get to participate. Wouldn't it be cool if you could ask a candidate a question, and not have to leave the comfort of your living room-- or wherever your computer terminal happens to be?

What if, all you had to do was come here to GraniteGrok and submit a question to Fred Thompson? Sorta like a "virtual" town hall meeting? If you think that's a good idea, you're in luck! GraniteGrok has been selected by the Thompson campaign to be among a few blogs that will be participating in a new type of candidate access and communication. Here's how it works:

We've decided we'll ask some blogs to solicit questions from readers, then have the blogger select the top 4-5 questions the blogger thinks should be answered by Thompson and pass those on to us. We'll have Thompson answer, on video, as many of the questions as we possibly can. (we assume that will be most, if not all, of them)
.
And while we'll do this with some national blogs, as well, we particularly want to get New Hampshire blogs involved, so we can take questions from New Hampshire residents.

How about it, GraniteGrok readers? This is your opportunity to get involved. We need four to five really good questions to forward to Fred for answers. If you're like me, intrigued but still unsure about Mr. Thompson, now's to time to find out.

Either send me an email with your questions to doug(at)granitegrok(dot)com or put them in the comment section below. Hurry up because I will be sending them tomorrow morning. Don't miss your chance to be part of a truly new kind of campaign!
.

Posted by Doug on September 5, 2007 3:14 PM | Permalink

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Listed below are links to weblogs that reference **ATTENTION** GraniteGrok readers invited to submit questions to Fred Thompson:

» Response to “ASK FRED” From the Road has been enormous! from Blogs For Fred Thompson
Fred Thompson may need to quickly create a “Fred on the Issues” profile on his website. The webblogs listed to field questions on, as well as his own blog, have been inundated with numerous posts and comments. Many of the questions are fielded apparen [Read More]

» "Fred" Questions - the analysis from GraniteGrok
That was unexpected - just the sheer number of comments and questions sent into the 'Grok as the Fred campaign asked a few blogs to gather questions for the Senator (here). At 10:28 last nite - 234 comments and about... [Read More]

» What was old is now new again....debate style! from GraniteGrok
We did it for Fred - we'll do it again!The 'Grok is looking for more reader input ... [Read More]

Comments

Fred, Why do you continue to deny all knowledge of anything the CFR is doing with the NAU/SPP etc? We all know you're a member in good standing, one of the good ole boy's club. What are you afraid of?

Posted by: NH | September 5, 2007 6:30 PM

Fred How would you control spending in our Government? What is you view in Abortion? WHY should I vote for you Mr. Thompson what makes you so unlike the other candidates? Why did you decide so late to join the race?

Posted by: Pricilla | September 5, 2007 6:46 PM

WHY should I vote for you Mr. Thompson what makes you so unlike the other candidates? Where do you stand on the Life issue? What would be the best way to Stop Government wasteful spending? Do you really believe in man-made global warming?

Posted by: Pricilla | September 5, 2007 6:53 PM

I need to know where I can Get one of your Bumper Stickers. Please let me know thank you. Randy

Posted by: Randy Hines | September 5, 2007 10:17 PM

Senator Thompson, Do you have any regrets or second thoughts about your decision to run for the Presidency?

Posted by: Nels Kingston | September 5, 2007 10:19 PM

how does fred feel about the immigration issue? We work hard and pay taxes and should the illegal immigrants be allowed to just collect social security etc.

Posted by: janet | September 5, 2007 10:30 PM

Senator Thompson While I was still on active duty in August of 1997, I wrote you about the Campaign Finance hearings as part of my decision process on whether or not to retire from the Air Force. You answered me that there would be more hearings during the 98 session of Congress, yet they never materialized. From reading an article on the internet about you, I get the distinct impression that you discovered potential wrong doing on the part of some Republicans, but when you thought investigations should be accomplished on those individuals, Senator Lott stepped in and cancelled all hearings. Is that correct? (FYI, On January 18, 1998 when it was revealed that Bill Clinton had lied so long and so well about his affair with Gennifer Flowers, I realized I would not have obeyed a direct order from Clinton unless and until two independent parties could confirm that the orders were legal, moral and compliant with national security - it was during that month I submitted my retirement papers)

Posted by: Colonel (Retired) Greg Hollister | September 5, 2007 10:40 PM

I have heard you speak on a couple of occasions and was wondering if you mean what you say or are you only saying what you think people want to hear? I believe America and American's in general are in danger and that we need a very strong and honest leader, despite the fact it may be hard to stand up to what could amount to horrendous critism for what is right for this country. I also think we need a leader who is there for the ones risking their lives to protect our citizens whether they (the citizens) appreciate it or not. This is a country founded on ideas and hard thought out rules and faith that would stand up for the future as well as the present. I think it could still be.

Posted by: Wendy K. | September 5, 2007 10:40 PM

Fred -- What will you do to strengthen and preserve the US economy from another Depression? According to NewsMax financial analyst John Browne our economy is entering a dual state of stagflation and inflation (of AT LEAST 6%, NOT the Clinton-era recalculated 2%), significant dollar devaluation, and the beginning of a recession that could lead to a Depression. You talk about the upcoming hard economic impact of retiring baby boomers. But there is also the threat that China could dump dollars, which other countries already have done to some degree, and many American investors have done. How are we going to continue to finance our national debt with more people investing in the euro and yen and not the dollar? -- S Lieben.

Posted by: S Lieben | September 5, 2007 10:43 PM

The overwheliming issue that most of my Republican friends and I have been steamed about for years is the Bush administration's unbelievable refusal to aggressively enforce current immigration law. Given that GW was willing to invade two other countries (and spend a trillion dollars) to try to deal with international terrorism and WMDs, why in the world has he not translated his zeal into action to stop illegals at the border and take action against the tens of millions of illegal aliens in this country?

Do those big business contributors who hire many of those illegals mean more to Bush than the Republican faithful? That's the conclusion that my friends and I have reached. We feel totally betrayed and none of us will vote for a Republican who is not highly aggressive on the illegal alien problem.

So, what is Fred Thompson planning to do about all the illegal aliens in this country? Will he enforce current law and use every arm of the federal government and aggressively round them up? Will he deport them? If he catches them illegally in the country a second time, will he seek to impose the 5-year prison terms called for in existing law? What about simultaneously instituting another bracero program to supply our needed low-cost labor . . . and institute harsh penalties for anybody that overstays their allowed time in the United States?

Posted by: Rich Gannon | September 5, 2007 10:57 PM

Fred, Thanks for throwing your hat into the race!! I suggest you read "the Fair Tax Book" by Neil Boortz and promote The Fair Tax Law (HR 25) in your campaign. Look what supporting the fair tax did for Mike Huckabee's campaign at the straw poll. Good luck and God Bless, R Swierczynski

Posted by: R Swierczynski | September 5, 2007 10:58 PM

No soft shoe here. Will you get our boarder secured and deport illegal alines? Can this be done? or what can we do? There is a chicken packing company just 3 miles down our road, they pay $13.75 per hour. I work for $7.00 dollars do you think for a moment I would not clean chickens for that money? But there is no way for me to know that they are hireing because every time they need someone they go out to the shop and tell the illegals they want to hire, the word goes out in the Mexican community and they show up the next morning. What chance do I or any of us have to get one of those jobs? It is not that we don't want to work the fact is that the illegals have the jobs all sowed up.

Posted by: John Butler | September 5, 2007 10:59 PM

Is there any potential support for you among the (currently) non-voting public ?

Posted by: E D Maner | September 5, 2007 10:59 PM

Senator Thompson: I have asked this question multiple times, but I have never been able to get a response from a politician. Hopefully, you will respond. As you are aware, many 30 somethings, 40 somethings, and 50 somethings have much of their savings tied up in 401K plans. Currently, if a parent wants to withdraw an amount of money from this account prior to them turning 59, he/she must pay the taxes owed on pretax contributions and interest earned. There is also a 10% penalty tax on earnings from this 401K withdrawal. I agree with all of this except the following: If a parent needs the money to help pay for their childrens' college education, they should be able to make a withdrawal without the penalty tax. I agree they should have to pay the taxes owed, but they should not be penalized even more when this money is being used for such an important purpose. What is your stance on this?

Posted by: Keith Estes | September 5, 2007 11:06 PM

As I see Fred today, he has my vote. What this country needs is another Ronald Reagan, if you aspire to be the next Reagan then GO FRED GO. If not, stay home, you're just another politician. In the future, I look forward to speaking of Ronaldus Magnus and Fredius Maximus in the same sentence. Martin C. Hughes

Posted by: Martin C Hughes | September 5, 2007 11:15 PM

Fred, I am on active duty in the U.S. Navy and we are currently going through a force reduction. With our current Global War on Terrorism, not all servicemembers believe this is wise, including myself. We are consistently asked to do more with less on the premise that technology allows it. Contractors are being used more each day because they are supposedly cheaper than active duty. But I question some of their loyalties. Contractors are generally more concerned with their bottom line than doing their jobs the way they were hired for. If you are elected President, will you continue the current force reductions which the Navy and Air Force are currently going through?

Posted by: Paul Spears | September 5, 2007 11:15 PM

Fred-So far I like what I hear and read, but somehow we MUST make the American public aware of the impact of illegal immigration on our society. Here in Texas we are overwhelmed with people that are using tax supported services from public hospitals to schools to being part of our criminal justice system. While I know not all illegal immigrants are violent criminals, there are a significant number who do come here with the intent of commmitting crime. This in turn endangers our local and national security. A writer for the San Antonio newspaper did an investigative story detailng how people from nations that are known to harbor terrorists can slide through the system and enter our country via Mexico. The Mexican government uses us to provide the services they will not to their people and then fails to use any sort of security measures with those who enter their nation illegally. The Democrats want us to believe that national health care is the central issue, but without knowing who is being served by tax supported programs, then we have to conclude that illegal immigration is causing more harm. What plans do you have to discourage companies from hiring illegal aliens and what measures do you plan to take to secure our borders?

Posted by: Ellen K | September 5, 2007 11:18 PM

What will be done about the anchor-baby problem? This automatic citizenship was never meant to benefit any illegals.

Posted by: Steven Jones | September 5, 2007 11:26 PM

I'm ashamed to say this is the first political campaign that I've contributed to, but I'm motivated by the times & your ability to cut through the fog & get to the heart of the issue. I spoke with relatives in Georgia who also have contributed to your campaign, they too their first time. We all have confidence in you to LEAD this country to a better place. President Bush is trying & has been effective in many areas that he doesn't get credit for, but the undermining of his efforts is incredible. For you it will require making the tough choices, & sacrifice but do it for our security, our grandchildren's & global stability. The madness is on so many levels & it must be stopped. We believe you have the communication skills to meet the opposition toe to toe. Thank you & your wife for making the brave decision to run for office. My question is "Do you think its too late to stop or slow the national drift towards the forsaking of decency, principles & respect for others." We can hardly turn on television any more without being assailed during a commercial. The inhumane acts being done in society are a direct result of the lack of good ole right & wrong being taught to the children in school. There are many good people in this country who want a change.

Posted by: kathleen greenfield | September 5, 2007 11:26 PM

Fred: I hoped that you watched the movie "Man of the Year" . from what I see the whole political scene is askew. What we need is a person with backbone and not "politically correct" to stand up and be counted , especially when we have so many bobble heads in government. with the very hard directions that will be needed to be taken on such matters as immigration control,the national language,and of course IRAQ, since everyone currently in place was egar to please , why do you think colin powell bailed. he saw the handwriting on the wall also what about schawartzkoff? Since it is a known fact of the continued graft and shakedowns in iraq with the police and terrorist can be considerd the same because of family ties, we have a no win situation, espically when the quar'an says it is ok to lie , cheat , steal in the name of allah. I will watch for now to see and hear more about your approach to the problems. good luck. charles murray

Posted by: charles murray | September 5, 2007 11:35 PM

Fred, I am a huge supporter of the Fair Tax plan which will eliminate the cumbersome (and utterly bewildering) tax regulations, eliminate the IRS and turn April 15 into just another day, while preserving the necessary flow of revenue to the Federal government. What is your position on the Fair Tax?

Posted by: Susan Mohr | September 5, 2007 11:48 PM

I have heard you are a strong supporter of the 2nd Amendment and I like many am concerned where political correctness is leading the nation on this issue as well as many others as you know. I am 'law abiding' and I do have small fears that with more liberal legislation I will one day wake up and find myself a 'non-law abiding' firearms owner. Will you fight for this amendment? our heritage? I am a Virginia resident and thus very familiar with what has been written about Virginia Tech's tradgedy. It concerns me when academia-types (read liberal, utopian, political correctness) and the media demonize law abiding citizens who defend the 1st Amendment equally with the 2nd but it is not reciprocated. I am a retired firefighter now teaching a high school based firefighter program, that's story unto itself... educating the administrators, and there is a security person but the administrators do not want him armed. And I have taught at the local community college. As its been said, and what I do sincerely believe as a firearm owner and having been a firefighter/medic, Gun Free Zones are Victim Rich Zones. Final word on this subject if you have not heard the phrase... "When seconds count, the police are only minutes away." Not their fault, but I wish to defend me and mine. Going to go watch you on Leno now. Mike

Posted by: Capt. Mike | September 6, 2007 12:05 AM

The American aviation and airspace system is extremely important to me. I have just received my private pilots license and aspire to be a professional pilot with the airlines. However, the airlines and the FAA want to create a user fee system and increase taxes for general aviation. Such a move would greatly increase my already very expensive training. AOPA is actively lobbying to stop this move, and HR 2881 has their endorsement as a positive way to re-fund the FAA. What would you do to help aspiring pilot to be able to afford their training, and do you support a user fee system?

Posted by: Nick Elliott | September 6, 2007 12:28 AM

Dear Mr. Thompson: I've been impressed with your perception and grasp of the serious issues facing our country and the world. Now that you have announced, will we hear your ideas on what you would, as President, do about them, and how you'd go about accomplishing those goals? Thanks.

Posted by: K. Horstman | September 6, 2007 12:48 AM

Senator Thompson, A recent Pew poll has shown that many working mothers would prefer to stay at home to raise their newborn children for a few years rather than full time work. However, our tax laws take so much money from the American middle class that often most women cannot afford to be stay at home mothers due to the tax bite and the need for families to have two incomes. I wish to know, would you be in favor of frontloading the child tax credit and/or providing some sort of 3 year tax holiday up to a certain amount of money for families who have just had a child so that mothers can better afford to stay at home and raise their children while relying on their husband for their primary source of income? Also, many working mothers would prefer to work only part time so they can have more time to spend at home with children, but part time work is hard to find. Would you, Senator, be in favor of giving tax incentives to businesses and employers that give part time jobs and/or so called "Flex-Work" to women with young children so that children can spend more time being raised by their mothers? Thank you and best wishes, John

Posted by: John | September 6, 2007 12:49 AM

Dear Fred: Please see if any of these points ring true with you: Instead of the socialism of the Left, we once again need to teach and stand for: 1. Individual freedom, choice and accountability. 2. Individual responsibility. 3. Free market capitalism with un-biased education in our secondary schools and universities on how an individual can flourish in an innovative, free-market economy. If the heavily unionized government monopoly schools can’t get the job done, abolish the Dept. of Education and recommend the states institute voucher programs to stimulate competitive educational choices for the children of taxpaying citizens. 4. A move beyond "white guilt" and "black opportunism" into true individual freedom for all people, including people of color (instead of entitlements, preferences and special rights for designated groups). 5. A common sense immigration system that absolutely protects our borders, recognizes that we need labor in this country, recognizes that monies sent back to other countries from immigrant workers is the most effective foreign aid there is (it sidesteps political corruption and builds appreciation for the American economy and its fruits, as well as raising the standard of living and building markets abroad), and recognizes that US employers need a convenient, foolproof means of identifying legal workers. 6. A move towards competent, efficient, vigorous national defense that recognizes peace only comes through strength combined with virtue and that weakness invites diplomatic challenges and overt attacks. 7. Attention to our national infrastructure of transportation and communications including securing the Internet from hostile attack, protecting the computer systems that control our power grid, financial system, communications, etc.; expanding our highway infrastructure with additional capacity and effective maintenance, and aggressively building a nuclear power generation infrastructure. 8. A move away from federal centralization and control to states rights and true federalism, i.e., a move back towards constitutional government as envisioned by the Founding Fathers, including protection of 2nd Amendment rights as individual rights. 9. Exposing, debunking and overhauling or eliminating the pernicious Ponzi Scheme of Social Security and Medicare - Medicaid. The fact that the surpluses of the Social Security system over the past two decades have been squandered instead of invested in hard assets is appalling to me. The group-think delusion of Social Security must be exposed and replaced--hopefully with a free-market, investment based solution. 10. Install a simplified, easy to understand tax system that will not discourage risk, innovation or financial success. Our current system is incomprehensible and represents a tremendous drag on our economy. High-tax, socialist systems suppress individual initiative, innovation and economic growth. What's wrong with a country full of wealthy people anyway? Have you ever visited countries that are full of poor people? Those points came off the top of my head sitting here this evening. I'm supporting you because I believe you share my views on many of these topics and you appear to have the talent to move this agenda forward. I hope I'm putting my trust and financial support in the right camp. Sincerely, Louis Montgomery

Posted by: Louis Montgomery | September 6, 2007 12:50 AM

Fred, I would like to know your position, on the current plan by this administration, to install a missile defense shield in certain former soviet states,i know the current Russian government doesn't resemble the democracy that we all thought we would see at the end of the cold war, but do you think this missile defense shield will expedite the return of russia to an enemy of the USA, if they are not already? thanks good luck FRED!!

Posted by: David | September 6, 2007 12:50 AM

Fred: I think you're a great candidate. I understood what you said in the Tonight Show about the Iraq war as being a bigger agenda - and the United States's fight against tyranny. I would like to vote for you for these reasons. But what would you do about gay rights issues? Obviously it's a completely different topic from the more important issues - but would you at least support civil unions (with an opt-out exception to churches), or anti-discrimination for gay people that would still respect churches?

Posted by: DP | September 6, 2007 12:55 AM

TAXATION - Fred, under a President Thompson Administration, would we expect to see a bill abolishing the IRS and implementing the FAIR TAX, or at least perhaps a flat tax? The income tax code is out of control, leaves too much power in the hands of the politicians to dictate our daily lives and commodity prices, and has even forced many corporations overseas to saner systems.

Posted by: Eric Stratton | September 6, 2007 12:56 AM

Not so much a question but a possible idea to fix the border problem. Make it desirable for companies to transfer all production of goods from China to Mexico. This would provide jobs to Mexicans and would get rid for the most part the need for them to come to the United States... unless they are spending their new found tourist dollars. China is not to be trusted... By Americans buying all of the MADE IN CHINA products we are pumping billions of dollars into their economy every year and they are just building their military up against US.

Posted by: Tug McGraw | September 6, 2007 12:59 AM

Isaac Asimov wrote in his first Foundation novel, "Never let your morals get in the way of doing the right thing." There are many issues facing this country, some big, some small, some important, and some not. While I feel that it is important for our leaders to have and represent good moral values, there are times where this comes into conflict with the basic principles of this country.

An example could be "flag burning." While I find this reprehensible, many young men and women have died over the years so that people in this country have the right to free speech, up to and including burning a piece of cloth. This is a small issue, in that it doesn't have a huge impact on our day-to-day lives, but there are other similar issues such as "gay marriages or civil unions", "gambling", "prayer in school", etc.

In each of these cases, there is a conflict between what "religious, moral values" and "American ideals" tell us. The Federal Government is not the moral police of the country, and shouldn't take that role. Yet politicians on both sides of the aisle jockey for votes with their constituents who believe strongly in one side or the other. And typically, it is the Republican side that takes the "moral" side of the debate.

How do you feel that your values "should" and "will" play into your leading this country over the next eight years?

Posted by: Jon-Paul Estes | September 6, 2007 1:01 AM

Hi Fred, I like your approach so far. I would like to know if you will be stern on securing our borders before it's to late. It seems Bush is now buddies with the mexican Prez and he comes before the American people. What does he stand on Immigration. Thank You!!!

Posted by: Richard Molyneux | September 6, 2007 1:10 AM

Sir: I am a registered Democrat,however, I do not have a problem voting out of the party line in State elections. I have always voted Democrat for President except when I don't like either candidate, then I don't vote at all. After watching you on Tonight Show and listening to your video taped message, I am wavering! My question, why should I vote for you and not for Clinton? Thank you and God bless.

Posted by: Vicky Hurley | September 6, 2007 1:10 AM

Hi Fred, Where do you stand on The strength of the dollar, foriegn workers taking American jobs, and jobs leaving this country. Thanks

Posted by: Richard Molyneux | September 6, 2007 1:16 AM

Fred,What is your stance on the Bush administrations' agenda to put missile defense shield bases in former soviet states? do you think this will expedite the Russian government under Putin to return to a communist type regime faster? I think it's pretty obvious that Russia is FAR from being a democracy, and would like to know what you think the next 8 years will be like for Russian-American relations. thanks, GOOD LUCK!

Posted by: David | September 6, 2007 1:22 AM

I'm with Fred on many of almost all of the issues, but he's missing a key one. He will get my vote if he supports the FairTax. It's that simple.

Posted by: Kevin Bradley | September 6, 2007 1:25 AM

First off, I'd like to say I'm very excited that you are running for President, Mr. Thompson. How do you feel about a timetable on a withdrawal from Iraq? How do you feel about Iran's nuclear programs? How do you feel about the criticism by Democrats about the current healthcare system?

Posted by: Hakop A. | September 6, 2007 1:36 AM

You state that you are in favor of overturning Roe vs. Wade and therefore sending the abortion issues back to the States. My question is "if Congress ever passed a bill to make abortion illegal across the United States, would you sign the bill?"

Posted by: John Ketterer | September 6, 2007 1:38 AM

Dear Mr. Thompson, Seeing you on Jay Leno was very uplifting and just felt right. Welcome to the race and the best of luck! Jay Leno spoke of the peace corps experience during John Kennedy's administration. Wasn't his brother assassinated by a Palestinian?

Posted by: Cam Manning | September 6, 2007 1:38 AM

Very simply. What is Mr. Thompson's complete view of the 2nd Amendment to the Constitution?

Posted by: Michael Thomas | September 6, 2007 1:39 AM

I'm with Fred on almost all of the issues, but he's missing a key one. He will get my vote if he supports the FairTax. It's that simple.

Posted by: Kevin Bradley | September 6, 2007 1:44 AM

Mr Thompson The single most important question I can ask you is who is Jesus Christ. Your answer and beliefs in that question alone will determine your true affectiveness on being President of the United States.

Posted by: Tony | September 6, 2007 1:46 AM

Dear Fred, As a farmer I find it frustrating when we have people that talk about all the waste in the farm bill and think that most of it is going to rich farmers. I would like to point out that after working in the industry for over 35 years I have never met a rich farmer. I know farmers that my be asset rich but are still pinching every penny they have. 95% of them work another job just to support their farm. When will we value the contribution of our farmers and ranchers and protect them from encroaching sprawl, imports that threaten domestic production and Use of govenment programs that were ment to help the family farm and not the industrial corporate farms that continue to go bankrupt leaving the American consumer with the bill? When your ready to talk Health Insurance let me know.

Posted by: Richard L Behling | September 6, 2007 1:47 AM

dear fred,I live in montana,I would like to talk about health ins.I make about $10.00 an hr.and my work wants $749.00 a month for ins.so with paying rent,gas,food we can't aford health ins.wife had skin cancer witch we had to pay out of pocket so we are still catching up on bills a littel at a time.thank god we have a food bank here becuse we had to take the money from somewere.I hope you can do something about health ins. karl

Posted by: karl raimer | September 6, 2007 2:11 AM

Thank you for throwing your hat in the ring. You have my vote. Ever since March 2007 I've told my friends that the World will be much better off with Fred Thompson at the helm as we head into the storms of war and political unrest that are sure to come. I stood up and cheered at your announcement. The Muslim extremists have a 100 year plan in place to conquer the world by force, to convert the world to Islam. Do it or die, they say. America cannot look or be weak now or in the coming decades. It is my fear that the pacifists will gain the upper hand in this most important election, and by this action, doom freedom. Predators always take down the sick and weak from the herd, they never single out the strong and healthy. So far, no other candidate has had the right stuff to publicly address this touchy and scary subject. It seems they won't tell the voters the truth that we are and will be at war for generations. That this war will not go away with a new President who tucks tail. The Democrats will say and do anything just to get elected, including abandoning and allowing the murder of millions of people who wish to be free from tyrany. Do you have a long range plan to keep America thinking strong? And can you, will you clear up the misinformation we are constantly fed about the meaning of Separation of Church and State? That its never been a law and it's not really in the Constitution. It's just something the ACLU and others have come up with to hurry our religious demise and lessen our self worth.

Posted by: Dan Strawser, Sr. | September 6, 2007 2:14 AM

Sen. Thompson, From what I've read you are in favor of overturning Roe v. Wade. As a Federal Prosecutor, you are obviously familiar with the concept of stare decisis and its effect on the American legal system. While there have been instances in the past where the Supreme Court has reversed itself due to a changing social climate in America, as a young man I find it safe to say that my generation feels the Roe case is not one of these instances. Further, you speak about avoiding activist judges. Wouldn't any future appointment to the Supreme Court, in your effort to overturn Roe, necessarily be one of the "activist" judges you speak out against? It is precisely my generation that will be most affected by any changes on abortion policy, and any change in this policy, whether legislative or otherwise, should keep our best interests in mind. While I agree with much of "common sense conservatism", and I myself could never allow my fiance to have an abortion, your position could certainly be a sticking point for many voters in my generation.

Posted by: Phil | September 6, 2007 2:20 AM

Mr. Thompson, I am a Residential builder who is reluctantly retired do to health reasons. As a builder I have a somewhat different view of how to help with energy and focil fuel concerns, and would like your opinion. We all agree on our need to reduce our dependence on focil fuels, and technology has many ways to do so. one of which would be for state and federal requirements to install solar panels or new tech advanced solar shingles on all new homes and commercial structures built in the USA as well as new types of wind generators that have recently been developed and are very cost efficient. Also better tax incentives to retrofit older homes and commercial structures. There have been many advances for fitting skyscrapers with wind generators at a low price. These steps alone would cut our dependence on focil fuels for energy by a third, and more as it becomes more prevalent, as well as create more jobs in the market place. I know of many other options as well and wish we could talk about it some day, But I would like to here your opinion on this small but far reaching subject please. I have followed your career for some time and hope that this would merit as a concern...

Posted by: Ben Ewing | September 6, 2007 2:56 AM

Posted by: Ben Ewing | September 6, 2007 3:05 AM

Well, I am a lot like others on here... I want Secure Borders, NO ILLEGALS (and not by legalizing them) and NO NAU... Seeing as how you are a card carrying member of the CFR, how can we trust you in regards to the NAU or our nation's soveriengty Also, after voting for Senor Boosh 2 times, and watching the Republican party at the state level rip apart Arizona politics (if you were a secure border republican, they yanked your funding), I have ZERO trust for the republican party right now.. Republicans and Democrats are just 2 sides of the SAME coin TELL ME, after what I have just typed above, WHY should I vote for you or anyone in the republican party?? I like you, you remind me of Reagan.. Answer my questions and see if you win my vote

Posted by: Arizona Patriot | September 6, 2007 3:35 AM

While concerns over things like globalism and sovereignty are not at the top of our attention right now, these things will get much more focus in the years that you will be the leader of our country. With that in mind, I would like to know your thoughts on the SPP and other agreements that could have an effect on our ability to control our own laws and regulations when they may conflict with global and trade agreements. Thank You.

Posted by: freewolf46 | September 6, 2007 4:06 AM

Mr. Thompson, what would your policy be regarding foreign trade, as well as our trade deficit with China? Related to this, how will the de-industrialization of our country effect our long term prosperity and what can be done to protect the strength of our nation without undo reliance on other countries for manufactured goods, especially as it relates to the military.

Posted by: Rich Lillo | September 6, 2007 4:17 AM

Dear Fred, I have 5 questions for you. You can answer them all, or how ever many you please: 1) To what extent do you think government solutions can be formulated “objectively"? 2) To what extent does an “objective” approach to creating solutions lie outside the dichotomy of liberal and/or conservative values? 3) Would you adopt a solution that, while considered a "liberal" approach, was nonetheless the most sound and objective approach to attacking the problem it was designed to solve? 4) Wouldn't an increasingly Federalist national government allow for the possibility of some states to implement more liberal government policies (like in California or Mass.)? How would you reconcile your conservative values with the possiblility of a sharp increase in liberal government policies in Blue States if Federalism is adopted? Thanks for hearing me out Mr. Thompson....gluck in 08

Posted by: Ethan | September 6, 2007 4:33 AM

A few years ago I was watching a congressman ( don't know which party he was with ) talking about the national deficit. He had a solution to this problem that I totally agreed with. Make a law to where you pay the deficit like you would a mortgage and then congress could not touch or change it unless we were at war or another national emergency fell upon us. I keep thinking about all the interest that this country has to pay that could be spent on other things to benefit the American people and a reduction of our taxes. To me this is our biggest threats to national security after islamic extremism. Look what happened to the Soviet Union. They are coming out of it now due to their energy reserves. We have no such reserves. What are your plans to eliminate this countries debt? I am in total agreement concerning looking for alternative energy recources. Look what this great nation accomplished during the moon race. I believe we could do it again with finding another source of energy if we put in the same effort. I am thankful that we finally have a true conservative in the race. You have my vote. With Regards, Bob Gordon

Posted by: Bob Gordon | September 6, 2007 4:37 AM

Sen. Thompson: I have so many thoughts and comments; it is hard to know where to start. I will preface my questions with a short statement - Sen. McCain won the September 5th debate because he stopped repeating the same thoughts were have heard over this already too long campaign. We know you love your country, we know you support our troops (have you ever heard a candidate for Prez say - "I do not support our troops?"), we know you want to hunt down terrorist - stop repeating the obvious. Be direct, less thoughtful and mushy. Be factual (and ensure triple times that your facts are correct), less talkative. Give me dates, times and places. If you are going to cut taxes - by how much and by when? If you are going to put forward your plan, tell me how with specifics - times, dates, facts. Anything else is the same ole, same ole. Questions: 1. As a former member of the US Navy, I never understood why my pay was taxed. The US Government takes income tax from the milk man, passes it along to me from the Defense budget, and yet tax that pay AGAIN. Enough already. Sen., I do not need to take MORE money from the Defense Budget - give me a pay raise by eliminating the requirement of service men/women from paying income taxes. If it is ok for those in hazardous areas to get income tax free, why not all the remaining service members? Got your support? If so, by when will you propose such a task (remember to give specifics - how about within your first 100 days and dare the Dems to oppose!!) 2. The first candidate who proposes an across the board flat/fair/consumer (you pick the word) tax will get my vote. No more fraud. No more IRS. Everyone pays the same. No more tax discussions during campaigns. Period. Plan on submitting a plan (at least for public debate) within the first six months? 3. When do you plan on submitting a proposal to congress for a major fine for employers who hire illegal’s (don't forget a date)? No jobs, less immigration problem (and yes, you still have to secure our borders). I am not interested to whom large fines will put out of business. If they conduct themselves in an illegal manner, they do not deserve to be in business. 4. When (or if) do you plan on supporting a substantial raise in the HSA (Health Savings Account) cap? The current $5650.00 (and soon to come $5800.00) is a joke. Every seen a pregnancy occur for less than $5k? Congress is more interested in how much money it will cost them to realize, my tax money was not theirs to begin with. Stop worrying about how much I will save on taxes and start looking after middle income Americans. Date, please! How about an immedite increase in 2009 to $10,000? 5. Why is it that I can go to Canada and get Rx drugs cheaper than I can in my own country? What is your immediate plan to correct it (and by immediate, I do not mean lets continue to talk about it in a DC kind of way [years] and do nothing)? Thanks for the time - next week I will post more.

Posted by: RN Dishman | September 6, 2007 6:32 AM

Mr. Thompson; If pressed, no candidate will go on record as being against the second amendment to the Constitution. If pressed, at best, one will receive a response from the candidates to the effect, “I’m for second amendment rights”. Many people have said that in the past; many Republicans have said that and yet Americans have seen more and more legislation restricting their right to keep and bear arms. My question to you is what specifically would you do to protect the citizens’ second amendment rights? What specifically would you do to undo the infringement on those rights that have already been enacted?

Posted by: Michael Sinsabaugh | September 6, 2007 6:38 AM

Re: Iraq Fred, as a republican and veteran I do suuport our general mission to fight terrorism and understand Iraq is but juts one battlefeild. My question however is; since we train kids for six to eight weeks to become competent fighters why has it taken over three years to train the Iraq military members? Seems like our overal straegy is not very effective. What is the game plan for winning this battle and why don't we expect more from their leaders?

Posted by: Michael Buick | September 6, 2007 7:18 AM

America seems to be more concerned about a dead dog than a dead child. What about stricter laws regarding pedophiles, child pornography, child abuse, and the like? These people are toxic waste and need to be dealt with swiftly and justly, what are you going to do about? Children are our most valuable natural resource, we need to fix this NOW.

Posted by: Angela P. | September 6, 2007 7:41 AM

Mr. Thompson, you have my interest. I was impressed by what was presented on your announcement. There were several references to taxes and the downward spiraling of the economy. I would like to ask what, if anything, you can and/or will do regarding this. I am a real estate agent in the State of Michigan and I can tell you first hand the damage that predatory lending and skyrocketing taxes has done to cripple this wonderful State. We are seeing (as is the rest of the Country in varying degrees) record numbers of bankruptcies and foreclosures. These are not deadbeats. These are hardworking Americans that have lost their jobs or been victimized by lending institutions that sought to drive their own profits up with little or no regard to the future ramifications of their practices. House payments are increasing by hundreds of dollars a month. Their options are limited to selling their home or walking away. I can tell you that it is extremely difficult to sell a house in a market that is driven by foreclosures. And, to add insult to injury, the answer to the dwindling State revenues is to increase taxes. Pray tell, from where are the monies for these taxes to come? So, my question is this... how will you, as President, address and implement the necessary changes to turn around the devastated housing market and ever increasing taxes, yet at the same time, put the brakes on Government intrusion?

Posted by: Marian Pike | September 6, 2007 7:48 AM

Fred, The tax system and IRS are out of control and have been for decades. When an entire nation cringes and fears it's government's tax collection wing on the same day every year, something is very wrong in this country. Regardless of national statistics on an average wage in this country, most people make well below that average. Yesterdays middle class is todays lower class. The main reason for that is taxes... Income tax, excise tax, property tax, ect. If this nations populace has to endure any more taxes, both obvious and hidden, people may as well just let the IRS take our paychecks and people can go stand in line to recieve their monthly entitlement.. That is were things are headed. This is the only nation in the world that taxes it's citizens, even when they live outside the country. The Founding Fathers of this nation must be rolling in their graves. What do you plan to do about this situation? Where do you stand? A lot of polititions say they want change, but nothing ever happens. Most citizens do not really believe that anything will ever change as we are to steeped in our system. Fred, what are you going to do about it?

Posted by: Jim R. | September 6, 2007 8:25 AM

Got Energy? I think energy sources and technology will be the largest hurdle for the US to overcome in the next 10 years. Investment in energy can provide a huge boost to the American economy by providing high tech jobs, affordable energy futures and exporting the technology. Other Democrat candidates have recognized the issue, but most Republicans seem to be ignoring the issue as their big oil buddies get rich beyond belief. We need a republican to stand for what is right for the American People not Big Oil. Newt Gingrich has several great ideas for spurring our energy efforts. Fred, what is your energy plan?

Posted by: Mike Mayo | September 6, 2007 8:36 AM

Mr. Thompson, Government continues to get bigger and more intrusive in our citizen's lives. Usually you see this kind of build up in a democratic president, but the current administration has run up the deficit with no end in sight and our civil liberties have taken some hits in the war on terror, (this last part may be inevitable to ensure our safety). My question to you is how will you win the war on terror while also bringing the budget back in line? You have said it is important that the government live by the same principles as the people, but if I ran my house the way the government is being run today I would be in Bankruptcy Court. Thank you for your time.

Posted by: Shawn Gearhart | September 6, 2007 8:36 AM

Fred, are you a man of faith?

Posted by: Mike | September 6, 2007 8:43 AM

Fred, Thank you for stepping forward in a time of great need in this country before if falls into the hands of the Clintons again. But my question is, Who is going to take reponsiblity or be blaimed for the next 9-11 attack when it happens, if we give up in Iraq?

Posted by: Roger Botting | September 6, 2007 8:53 AM

Mr. Thompson, I was wondering if my idea would help in the fight against terrorism. Do you think that the Untied States and it's allies should start an all out campaign against the terrorist of the world, by sending a world wide message that the United States and it's allies are fed up with the terrrorists! If any person, that is not a U.S citizen, performs any terrorist act, any place on earth, that individuals remains will be buried in the United States or Israel! I think that if a persons family knows that their son or daughter won't be buried in their home country that they would put alot more pressure on their family members to stay away from terroristic activities!

Posted by: charles m | September 6, 2007 9:09 AM

Senator Thompson: When you are elected, will you bring moraiity back to the United States. It seems that we have left the path that we started with. What will you do with the statement "In God we Trust"? It was God that gave us this life, isn't it time for us to put our trust and faith in him?

Posted by: LLOYD LA PLATA MO | September 6, 2007 9:10 AM

Mr. Thompson, The FairTax plan is a comprehensive proposal that replaces all federal income and payroll based taxes with an integrated approach including a progressive national retail sales tax, a prebate to ensure no American pays federal taxes on spending up to the poverty level, dollar-for-dollar federal revenue neutrality, and, through companion legislation, the repeal of the 16th Amendment. The FairTax Act (HR 25, S 1025) is nonpartisan legislation. It abolishes all federal personal and corporate income taxes, gift, estate, capital gains, alternative minimum, Social Security, Medicare, and self-employment taxes and replaces them with one simple, visible, federal retail sales tax administered primarily by existing state sales tax authorities. The FairTax taxes us only on what we choose to spend on new goods or services, not on what we earn. The FairTax is a fair, efficient, transparent, and intelligent solution to the frustration and inequity of our current tax system. The FairTax: Abolishes the IRS Closes all loopholes and brings fairness to taxation Ensures Social Security and Medicare funding Brings transparency and accountability to tax policy Allows American products to compete fairly Reimburses the tax on purchases of basic necessities Enables retirees to keep their entire pension Enables workers to keep their entire paycheck As a leading candidate for the Republican Presidential nomination, Please tell us your stance on the Fair Tax? If the FairTax were passed by Congress and you were President, would you sign the bill into law? Would you openly campaign for the bill?

Posted by: Kim | September 6, 2007 9:11 AM

Fred, I make less than $30,000 a year. Quite frankly, I'm proud of the money I make and I'm not ashamed that it's less than many people make annually. However, when I look at my bi-weekly statement and see that the government is taking 30% of my paycheck to pay for who-knows-what, I can't help but get angry and frustrated. You talk a lot about taking the bureaucracy out of Washington and empowering the common American. Why not make a statement, show you really do side with the common American, and support the FairTax. This is a huge issue with millions of Americans. Please don't ignore us like so many other politicans have. You'll have my vote -- and a lot of votes you might not otherwise have. Thank you, sir, and good luck.

Posted by: Joseph Gilroy | September 6, 2007 9:14 AM

Senator: What will you do to bring back our manufacturing back to the United States. We need to provide good jobs to our legal citizens. With all of the companies going overseas, the prices have not come down due to cheap labor, just higher profits to the companies, and less quality. Don't you believe we should take care of our citizens before hiring cheaper labor outside of our country. Our citizens built this great country.

Posted by: LLOYD LA PLATA MO | September 6, 2007 9:14 AM

Posted by: Joseph Gilroy | September 6, 2007 9:15 AM

Posted by: Roger Botting | September 6, 2007 9:17 AM

Our military personnel is giving us the freedom to be able to elect our people, but when one dies or is injuried, the current administration and congress seem to turn their backs on them in giving the survivals the needed help they deserve. Supporting our troops just by saying how good the job they are doing, won't cut it. We need to provide needed assistance to their families and to the personnel. What would you do to help in this matter?

Posted by: LLOYD LA PLATA MO | September 6, 2007 9:19 AM

I was wondering what you consider to be the biggest challenge as President? What awould you tackle/want to change first? I also wonder if you are a Christian and how that will play into your role as president?

Posted by: Barbara | September 6, 2007 9:19 AM

Mr. Thompson, I would like to know if you will support the FAIR TAX? We need serious tax reform and I believe the Fair Tax would boost our economy, get this country back on track and put money into the pockets of all citizens. If you support the Fair Tax, close our borders to Illegals, stop giving them safe haven, healthcare, OUR social security, and protect our country against terrorism, I just may vote for you.

Posted by: csheahan | September 6, 2007 9:20 AM

What would you do to help our Seniors? Everytime we get a token raise we get an increase in Medicare. If we pull some money out of our established retirement funds, that we have contributed to over the years, we are taxed on our Social Security. Isn't this a double tax. We were already taxed on the income to put the money in S.S. Why do we have to be taxed on it again?

Posted by: LLOYD LA PLATA MO | September 6, 2007 9:23 AM

Will you get government out of our lives on a daily basis? We don't need the many regulations and laws that the congress think we do. Congress and the present administratin won't enforce our laws now, how do they expect to enforce new ones? We need someone that will controll Congress and protect us from outside sources, not more laws for the citizens. PLEASE HELP US GET AMERICA BACK TO THE CITIZENS.

Posted by: LLOYD LA PLATA MO | September 6, 2007 9:25 AM

Hi Mr. Thompson, First off, I would to wish you the best in your run for President. I feel your run is an important one because your bring to the podium, issues that other canidates refuse to even consider. May your run be blessed. My question to you is, what is your stand on the Fair Tax? Heres the link if you would like to go to the site. www.fairtax.com I feel that this is an issue facing us and our children. Tax issues have overwhlmed many Middle Class Americans. Thank you and God Bless

Posted by: Lori Jeffries | September 6, 2007 9:26 AM

Senator Thompson, I am a 24 year old former member of the US Air Force. I am trying to understand how with a War on Terror going on, how is it we can afford to cut the Air Force by 40,000 people. I understand the modernization of the military, but I don't understand how the leaders of our military can make some of the decisions they make and feel competent about doing it. You sound like our best bet in this next election. It is about time someone runs for the White House who is not a career politician. I believe you think there is a job that needs doing, and that you are the best person for the job. I agree with you. I will be voting for you in the election. As such, I only have one more question for you. With all of the trouble we have taking care of our own citizens, how in the world is it fair for Americans to have to wait for a job because there is a foreign worker who had the job last year but is waiting on his work visa paperwork. Now, I know we need allies, and that as a world power we take care of the weak and those looking for the American dream, but, shouldn't