« Previous | Main | Next »

Thompson: Reaching Beyond GOP Necessary to Win '08

September 19, 2007 1:06 PM

ABC News' Christine Byun Reports: During a Texas campaign stop, GOP hopeful Fred Thompson promised to run as a "common sense conservative," but, to win next November, he says that he will have to appeal beyond his party and reach out to Independents and "maybe some Democrats."

"We’re going to have to be mindful of that – not by going out and trying to become all things to all people – but by having a strong, firm philosophy that emphasizes security for this country," Thompson said, adding that he "wouldn’t run if [he] didn’t think [he] could do that."

Thompson - donning plastic safety goggles - briefly toured a Dell Computer manufacturing facility in Austin, Texas this morning.

Guided by Dell executives, the former Tennessee senator towered over a worker as she showed him various parts at her build-station on the factory floor. The Austin facility produces commercial and consumer desktop computers and parts.

Thompson said he was interested in hearing from American companies, like Dell, that manufacture products within the country. He met with company representatives behind closed doors and participated in a presentation on tax policies.

"It’s still important that we maintain a strong manufacturing base here, especially in the high-tech areas," Thompson said, noting he was familiar with Dell, because they have a plant in Nashville, Tenn.

CEO Michael Dell was absent from Thompson’s visit due to a trip overseas. The former actor/lawyer is the first 2008 Presidential candidate from both parties to tour a Dell facility, according to Dell Spokesman David Frink. He says the company intends to invite all candidates to their factory for a similar meeting.

September 19, 2007 in Thompson, Fred | Permalink | User Comments (0)

User Comments

Post a comment

Name:

Email Address:

URL:

Remember personal info?

Comments: