Thompson, In Critical SC Contest, Keeps Up Criticism Of Huckabee

In South Carolina Friday, White House hopeful Fred Thompson continued his criticism of rival Mike Huckabee, calling the primary contest a fight between the ideals of Ronald Reagan and populist appeals that blame others for problems.

The former Tennessee senator and actor has declared South Carolina his "line in the sand." An early favorite when he entered the race, Thompson has since been overshadowed by Huckabee, the former Arkansas governor who has wide appeal to Christian conservatives, and by John McCain, the Arizona senator who got a boost with his New Hampshire victory.

Thompson questioned Huckabee's commitment to Reagan's principles.

A Huckabee spokesman suggested Thompson apparently can't sell himself so is resorting to desperate tactics.