Thompson Forms Exploratory Committee

Former Wisconsin Governor and Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson filed papers to form a presidential exploratory committee on Friday.

"Let's bring America together again. And together, let's start solving the tough problems and creating greater opportunity," Thompson said.

"Despite some real challenges, America still enjoys the highest quality of life. There is nowhere in the world where a newborn child will be afforded more opportunity and freedom than the United States of America," he added.

Seven of the 24 prospective 2008 presidential candidates have formed exploratory committees:

Republicans:
Kansas Senator Sam Brownback
New York City Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani
Arizona Senator John McCain
Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney
Former Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson

Democrats:
Former Alaska Senator Mike Gravel
Ohio Congressman Dennis Kucinich
Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack