Thompson questioned on lobbying report

A Los Angeles Times report last week that GOP presidential hopeful Fred Thompson once did lobbying work for an abortion-rights group has fueled an ongoing debate about Thompson's conservative bona fides, forcing the almost-candidate to explain himself. Thompson talked to conservative radio and TV personality Sean Hannity about the dust-up last night. The American Spectator has a related post on the subject today.

Defenders say Thompson had a solid "pro-life" voting record while in the Senate, but supporters of rival candidates have noted other instances in Thompson's past where he's expressed support for abortion rights. With some conservatives hoping Thompson will be their white knight in 2008, such distinctions will be important.