Words: Thompson is a supporter of states rights and feels that strong states work much better than central planning and federalization. He opposes “soft money” contributions, but advocates more hard money donations. He supports term limits and feels they could reduce the “professionalization” of politics. He also argues that there is considerable waste, fraud, and error in the federal government and that we need workforce, finance, and information management.

Actions: Thompson voted AGAINST banning more types of Congressional gifts (1995), FOR approving a presidential line-item veto (1996), FOR the McCain-Feingold overhaul of campaign finance (1997), FOR banning campaign donations from unions and corporations (2001), FOR requiring a photo ID for voter registration (2002), and FOR banning “soft money” contributions and restrict issue ads targeting specific candidates (2002).

More about: Fred Thompson, Oversight & Reform.