Great comments, Pistolshot. Thompson is doing this his own way and succeeding - which is in large part why people like the Politico writers seem to hate him so much.
I suspect his announcement will be the death knell for several other contendors. When that happens, look for Thompson to scoop up the appropriate fundraisers and on-the-ground organizers that are available. I suspect the McCain campaign (along with the now-defunct Allen campaign) will largely become a part of the Thompson campaign.
That alone makes me not trust Thompson. If he is attracting McVain supporters I want no part of him.