MSNBC and moderator Chris Matthews will be hosting the GOP debate from Dearborn, Michigan. All eyes are on first time participant Fred Thompson, who by virtue of sitting out previous debates, has caused the media to declare tonight Thompson's make or break moment.

In fact, it is such a momentous occasion that Meet the Press devoted considerable time to it, aided only a bit ironically by former Thompson girlfriend, Margaret Carlson.

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Thompson himself is no doubt feeling the pressure to prove himself as well, having spent several days rehearsing with former Sen. Alfonse D'Amato. And he is bringing the heavy hitters with him. In the spin room tonight for the Thompson camp: George "Macaca" Allen and Liz Cheney. That's bringing your A-game, Fred.