Rassumssen: Giuliani 26% McCain 16% Thompson 14%

Looks like an in depth poll makes Fred Thompson's strength even more impressive - this one adjusts for conservatives, and for likely to vote Republicans. Pretty impessive for a guy who hasn't launched a campaign yet - or even formally agreed to run. What was it Satchel Paige said? Dont look back, something may be gaining on you!

The addition of former Tennessee Senator Fred Thompson (R) to the list of candidates shakes up the race for the GOP Presidential nomination.The movie star turned Senator turned TV star weighs in with 14% support among those likely to vote in a GOP primary. Among Very Conservative voters, Giuliani attracts 20% support followed closely by Thompson at 19%, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich at 18% and McCain at 14%.

[The Rest of the Story]

Overall Gingrich is preferred by 11% while 8% would rather see former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney as the GOP nominee. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee reaches 3% and no other candidate attracts support from more than 1% of likely voters. Rasmussen Reports releases updated polling data on the Republican nominating contest every Tuesday. Results for the Democrats are updated on Mondays. In general election match-ups Thompson is tied with New York Senator Hillary Clinton (D) but trailing Illinois Senator Barack Obama (D).

Courtesy of Rasmussen Reports polling