How did I miss this story? Where have I been hiding?

Last week, addressing a group of Jewish activists, Tommy Thompson made probably the clumsiest attempt at pandering in the history of American politics. Honestly, as you read on, you’ll see that Thompson’s misguided pander makes Hillary’s phony southern drawl look like a stroke of genius. Said the former governor to the assembled representatives of American Jewry:

"I'm in the private sector and for the first time in my life I'm earning money. You know that's sort of part of the Jewish tradition and I do not find anything wrong with that."

Speaking on behalf of America's Jews, let me say how good it feels to finally know we have Tommy Thompson's approval. Thompson went on to say that he also saw nothing wrong with the well known Jewish proclivity for frugality and considered that too a virtue. Just kidding. Apparently, Thompson’s comment caused something of a stir, so sensing that he had stepped in the proverbial poo, Thompson returned to the topic later in the speech to attempt a clarification. Instead, he kept digging:

"I just want to clarify something because I didn't [by] any means want to infer or imply anything about Jews and finances and things. What I was referring to, ladies and gentlemen, is the accomplishments of the Jewish religion. You've been outstanding business people and I compliment you for that."

You know, presidential politics viewed from a distance can seem an odd thing. From a casual observer’s perspective, it might seem odd that a guy like Tommy Thompson’s candidacy is considered a non-starter while Mitt Romney and Fred Thompson are considered potential powerhouse candidates. After all, Tommy Thompson was a successful two-term governor and a Cabinet secretary. Romney was a one term governor and Fred Thompson a one-term Senator.

But Tommy Thompson’s comments show the real value-add of the insider primary. People who got to know Romney and Fred or who paid attention to them saw something that suggested presidential timber. People who paid attention to Tommy Thompson, to be perfectly frank, saw something of a schmuck. Remember, this is the guy who offered strategic counsel to al Qaeda as he left Bush’s cabinet.

Because of the chatter that emanated from the chattering classes, Romney and Fred Thomspon emerged as top tier candidates. Because of their indifference to people like Tommy Thompson, Joe Biden, and Chris Dodd, none of these guys have a chance. Honestly – should it be otherwise?

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