A Fred-head gives me a heads-up, noting that initial reviews from Fred Thompson’s speech this weekend were much more well received than his California address. (Interestingly, his speech in Florida got very little attention, and not much praise or criticism.)
The New York Times wasn’t allowed in.
The Politico had a few excerpts:
He chose to discuss his “first principles,” focusing on one that he’s associated with through his television appearances: “the rule of law.”
“It is a sad irony that a nation that is so dedicated to the rule of law is doing so much to undermine the respect for it,” Thompson said.
Thompson said his cues in public life come from the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.
“They include a recognition of God and the fact there are certain rights that come from Him and not the government,” he said.
“They are based upon a respect for the wisdom of the ages, and a belief that human beings are prone to err — that too much power must never rest in too few hands.”
At President Bush’s request, Thompson served as Senate shepherd for the confirmation of John Roberts to the Supreme Court.
“What a steep price even the best conservative nominee has to pay,” Thompson said Saturday. ”We were reminded how desperate the liberal community is to keep the deck stacked in their favor. And most importantly, we were reminded that the quality of an individual can overcome all obstacles. So he is now Chief Justice John Roberts.”
Thompson said the experience “also brought home again the importance of elections of a president and the Senate.”
Any attendees want to write in, give me their review?