Short-term Predictions: Fred Thompson

Predicting the future is always risky business, and obviously things can turn on a dime. Having said that, however, I'd like to make a few political predictions that cover the next few months:

First and foremost, I predict Fred Thompson will officially announce his candidacy for president of the United States on the same day this country declared its independence, July 4. He will do this in his home state of Tennessee, making his announcement on the steps of the state capital in Nashville. He will then visit his hometown of Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, to get back to his roots because his campaign will in large measure highlight his southern, small town, working class origins.

Second, I think Fred will go great guns, entering and dueling in the Republican Iowa Straw Poll scheduled for August 11. Whether Giuliani or McCain decide they're in or out of the Iowa process, Thompson will be IN and KO at least one or two Republican contenders, most likely Mitt Romney.

Third, I predict Fred will turn his efforts for the rest of the summer to fundraising for the long campaign ahead. He will hone his Internet presence and make the most of his knack for campaigning his own way, on his own terms. The longer he's in the race, the more unique and authentic Thompson's campaign will become. He knows if he's not having some fun in the midst of all the terminal seriousness, all the money in the world won't get him elected.

Fourth, I believe Fred will be thinking long and hard about a running mate, if he wins the nomination. It will surely have to be either a woman or a minority candidate to contend with a Hillary/Obama or Hillary/Richardson ticket. Could a Michael Steele or Michelle Malkin be in his future?

And finally, Thompson's new wife, Jeri Kehn, will ride herd on him and make sure he watches his diet, exercises and gets plenty of rest on the campaign trail. Dr. Bill Frist will be watching over Thompson as well, making sure he behaves himself in the health department. If Thompson becomes President, he will appoint Frist to the post of U.S. Surgeon General. Frist will be much better at this than he was as Senate Majority Leader, because it's where his heart is.

Whatever happens next, Fred Thompson will liven the place up for the long seige ahead. So stay tuned and get plenty of rest cause we're all gonna need it! Oh, and save your sense of humor for some upcoming Fred Thompsonisms.