- Edwards. Still the favorite. Nothing said so far against Kerry that would make it impossible for Kerry to pick him.
- Gephardt. Nader's entry lessens his chances because of Gep's Washington insider status. However, his similarity with Edwards on trade, his union support and his experience keeps him near the top.
- Richardson. Hidden drawback: African-American anger should a Hispanic be chosen as VP, given near total African-American loyalty to the party over the last 40 years.
- Graham. Still there. Practically campaigning for it.
Leading dark horse. Bill Nelson. Florida and compatibility with Kerry are his big selling points. But how would Graham react to being passed over?
Others
Bayh and Breaux's chances greatly lessened (thankfully) due to Nader's entrance. Kerry doesn't want to create a "Lieberman incentive" for people to bolt to Nader. Despite his visibility, Cleland not likely, if for no other reason than he comes from an unwinnable state.