Thompson Says Biggest S.C. Opponent Is McCain

ABC News’ Christine Byun Reports: From a bustling buffet restaurant, Republican candidate Fred Thompson told reporters his biggest rival in South Carolina is his former colleague, Arizona Senator John McCain.

"I thought it would probably Huckabee, but now it looks like it’s probably going to be McCain, but I’m just going by the poll numbers," the former Tennessee senator said during a media availability in Rock Hill, S.C.

Thompson was asked by a reporter what a win in today’s Michigan primary might do for former Governor Mitt Romney’s chances in the Palmetto State.

"It will undoubtedly recharge him a little bit, but, you know, he seems to have a lot of recharging to do, so I don’t know if it will make up enough ground for him or not," Thompson answered.
 
During his lunchtime campaign event, Thompson went after former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee for his stance on education, specifically on his endorsement from a state chapter of the National Education Association.

"One of the proudest endorsements that I never got and will never get is from the NEA," Thompson told a man who asked if he supported school vouchers.

Thompson – who flashed a thumbs-up for vouchers – said a more localized focus on schools needs to be greater. He also said there needs to be an emphasis on parenting to improve learning environments.

"Schools cannot absorb and correct all the social ills that are going around the schoolhouse," Thompson said.