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Thompson Sets Off Florida Alarms

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 20, 2007

Presidential candidate Fred Thompson's swing through Florida should alarm voters and worry supporters.

Thompson displayed little command of the issues or sympathy for state concerns.

Worse, he indicated support for drilling in the Gulf of Mexico much closer to the coast. He wouldn't even rule out drilling for oil in the Everglades, our endangered River of Grass.

'We've got to use all the resources available,' Thompson said.

The actor seemed unaware of legislation adopted by Congress last year that allows expanded drilling in the Gulf but sets a minimum 125-mile buffer to preserve Florida's tourist economy and its military training missions.

How close does Thompson want the rigs? Off Clearwater Beach?

Though he appeared not to have given the topic much thought, Thompson also seemed inclined to oppose a national catastrophe insurance plan that could make property insurance more affordable in states prone to natural disasters, a critical issue in Florida.

Neither could he say where he stood on Terri Schiavo. While the case of the comatose woman generated fierce debate throughout the nation and in the halls of Congress, Thompson can't 'remember the details of it.'

You would have thought that after all those months spent studying a potential campaign, Thompson would have emerged better prepared.

It's early. Thompson may deserve a mulligan. But a candidate who is indifferent to Florida's welfare is unlikely to be a friend in the White House.

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