Thompson Will Play As Long As 'Fred Funds' Hold Out

Languishing GOP presidential candidate Fred Thompson has put his thirsty red pickup truck on his homepage. "Fill the tank," it says. And here's the reason. Actor-politician Thompson plans to stay in the race despite his crummy winnings so far until at least South Carolina. After that, he's out unless he pulls a Hillary Clinton and picks up a surprise win there, we hear.

Of course, that's possible for the candidate, who's popular in the South. And, insiders say, Fred thinks he has enough money to get to the January 19 primary. He's seeking an additional $540,000 in "Fred Funds" and already has $370,000.

By Paul Bedard