Digger Cartwright, author of Murder at the Ocean Forest, issued the following statement today in support of Fred Thompson for President of the United States in 2008. Mr. Cartwright's spokeswoman released his statement following the conclusion of meetings in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at the weekend. Myrtle Beach will host both a Republican and Democratic presidential debate in January 2008. Mr. Cartwright's statement follows:
"In light of the recent Republican presidential debates and other developments, I hereby extend my full support to former Senator Fred D. Thompson in the 2008 presidential race. I look
forward to Fred Thompson formally declaring his candidacy on September 6, 2007. I and my entire staff will work hard in support of Fred Thompson's campaign, as I am confident in his
ability to lead America forward in these challenging times.
"My decision to support Fred Thompson comes after great deliberation and only after giving the already declared candidates adequate opportunity to put forth their platforms and express
their opinions on the great issues that lie ahead--Social Security and Medicare reform, tax reform, national defence and the global war on terror, federal fiscal responsibility. Given
Fred Thompson's distinguished service in the Senate, I am confident that his political experience and knowledge of the inner workings of Washington, D.C. will translate into exceptional
leadership abilities as Commander in Chief.
"As President Bush has courageously met the difficult challenges handed to him these last seven years, Fred Thompson will carry on a commitment and resolve to protect America, its
citizens, and our interests at home and abroad. His personality, character, and charisma will enable him to communicate great things to the people as we move America forward.
"Giving my endorsement to Fred Thompson is in no way intended to suggest that the other candidates are unsuitable to serve in the office of the President. Whilst the other candidates have
achieved great things in their own right throughout their careers, to be President requires more than just success in business or political experience. To be President requires not only
the ability to connect with the people of this great nation but also a commanding presence that grabs the attention of the public, world leaders, and diplomats. Former Senator Thompson
has this commanding presence, and I am confident that the image he projects will be well-received on the world stage and will help to restore America's standing in the world, confidence
in our country, and respect of foreign nations.
"I would, however, encourage Fred Thompson to look to the field of candidates for a vice-presidential running mate. Mike Huckabee brings his experience as the former governor of Arkansas
and strong support for the Fair Tax Plan. His commitment to tax reform addresses an issue that desperately needs the attention and the support of the Administration and the Congress if we
are to maintain our competitiveness in the world economy and ensure continued economic prosperity here at home.
"I look forward to spirited debate in the coming months over the great issues at hand, and I look forward to working diligently towards a Fred Thompson victory in 2008."
No photo opportunities were arranged during Mr. Cartwright's visit to Myrtle Beach. More information on Mr. Cartwright is available on his website, br /Executive Assistant to Mr.
Cartwright/PPbr /Telephone: 407-232-4065/PPbr /Website: a href="http://www.DiggerCartwright.com"linkClick( this.href );">http://www.DiggerCartwright.com