Of course it was no secret that Fred Thompson was going to announce he was running for President last night.  This morning I watched his appearance on the Tonight Show and watched his webcast video.  The webcast video was most interesting – click the read more link to see my thoughts.

Quite the anticipated event.  I have been watching with great interest the moves Fred Thompson has made and was anxious for him to join the fray.  He has delayed his announcement quite a while compared to the other candidates which I think is a good thing but it could hurt him when it comes to fundraising.

Here is an excerpt from his webcast announcement that I found particularly compelling:

"In 1994 when I first ran, I advocated the same common sense conservative positions that I hold today. They are based upon what I believe to be sound conservative First Principles – reflecting the nature of man and the wisdom of the ages. They are based upon the conviction that our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution are not outdated documents that have outlived their usefulness. It is a recognition that our basic rights come from God and not from government. That government should have its power divided, not only at the federal level but between the federal government and the states. Federalism is the belief that not every problem should have a federal solution. Essentially it's about freedom. A government that is big enough to do everything for us is powerful enough to do anything to us."

One word:  WOW!  That single paragraph sums up virtually everything I believe about government and I loved hearing it.  Is he another Ronald Reagan?  I don't know but I like what I see and hear so far. 

In case you haven't, you can see his webcast announcement on his website at http://www.fred08.com.