Fred Thompson quit the Republican presidential race Tuesday, after several poor finishes in early-voting primaries and state caucuses.

The former U.S Senator and actor stated:

"Today, I have withdrawn my candidacy for president of the United States. I hope that my country and my party have benefited from our having made this effort."

Thompson's fate was sealed after he finished third in the South Carolina primary, the state in which Thompson said was important for him to win. Thompson's withdrawal has left many GOP voters with a tough decision as to which remaining candidate is worthy of their vote.

Michelle Malkin writes:

"Yesterday, I noted the first of many defections. It’ll be interesting to see where the rest of the Fred operatives scatter. Speaking of scattering, where will the 12 percent of voters favoring Thompson in Florida go?"

Kim Priestap of Wizbang writes:

"After learning yesterday that he withdrew from Thursday's Republican debate, it was pretty clear what his next move would be. It seemed like he wasn't all that interested in running to begin with."

Tonight, MSNBC is broadcasting a two-hour debate at Florida Atlantic University, from 9 to 11 pm EST, and as of now MSNBC online is reporting that Mitt Romney leads the GOP in Florida.

Just hours before a Republican debate here Thursday night, and five days prior to the Florida GOP primary, a Mason-Dixon poll has Romney leading McCain in the state, 30 percent to 26 percent, although that is within the survey's margin of error.

The poll lists the poll ratings of the four leading Republican candidates, and a video of the results; as well as a summary of the three leading Democratic candidates as well.

Righty Loosey makes a few predictions about tonight's debate:

"Everyone will talk a lot about the US economy. Mike Huckabee will be asked at least two questions about his faith. John McCain will insult Willard “Mitt” Romney in a seemingly subtle way that really isn’t very subtle, if you think about it. Mitt Romney will lie about someone else’s record. Ron Paul’s answer to at least one question will include the words, “I mean come on!” as well as a fit of quacking and stuttering. Rudy Giuliani will cackle hysterically at one or more of Huckabee’s quips, because he can’t help himself. Huckabee will shine in this debate, and he always does. His fundraising will skyrocket for the next three days or so, his poll numbers (both in Florida and nationally) will spike 5-10 points in the next few days."

Political Buzz writes:

"It’s the final debate before what is arguably the make/break point in the Republican race: Florida. Wasn’t expected to be this way, but the wacky month of January has splintered all of our safe and solid pick for where and how the contest would be decided. Iowa and New Hampshire are worthless memories, Giuliani is a haggard ex-frontrunner, and the sizzling immigration debate that trashed McCain last year has vanished while JMac himself is the favorite to win it all. Huh?"

Gainesville.com is live-blogging the debate:

"We're live on the Florida Atlantic University campus for the Republican debate. You can read regular updates on this blog, or look for me interviewing people in the crowd while Chris Matthews airs "Hardball" live behind me.

Things have been pretty quiet on campus so far, except for the roving band of Ron Paul supporters marching through campus. The police have been trying to steer them into a designated area for campaign supporters and protesters, but it's kind of like trying to herd cats."

From Wonkette:

"Wonkette operative Lauren Selsky just picked up her GOP debate gift bag in Boca Raton. What do you get for going to a Republican debate these days? Let’s find out!

When I picked up my media credentials from FAU/Leadership Florida this afternoon, they also handed out this nice “swag bag.” I doubt it compares to the Oscars, but at least I won’t be taxed for it. Here’s what’s inside the nifty little canvas bag with “Florida Decision 2008” printed on the front..."

I'm thinking I need a GOP swag bag. The debate is on. I'm off to watch and perhaps live-blog some of the action. Stay tuned for more updates.

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Dana J. Tuszke also blogs at The Dana Files.