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MARK WARNER

Who is he? Former venture capitalist who served one term as governor of the solidly Republican state of Virginia.

Why take him seriously? Mr Warner was an extraordinarily popular and successful governor who was named one of the nation's five best by Time magazine. His ability to help his deputy Tim Kaine to succeed him cemented his reputation as a man able to win in Republican territory. He is independently wealthy - and Washington Post research shows that only Hillary Clinton among Democrats has a larger staff working on getting him elected in 2008.

What's going to stand in his way? Mr Warner is not yet nationally known, and his four years as governor of Virginia - which limits its governors to one term - do not constitute a wealth of experience, particularly in foreign affairs or security. He can come across as physically ill at ease.

Did you know? His venture capital firm provided the initial backing for the communications firm Nextel - the success of which made an already wealthy man extremely rich.

GEORGE ALLEN

Who is he? Rock-solid conservative senator from Virginia, a state he governed from 1994 to 1998.

Why take him seriously? George Allen was an effective chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, helping his party to pick up four seats in the Senate - and earning the gratitude of his party. He is a charismatic speaker who has already begun to put campaign staff into place, and is among the top Republicans in terms of fundraising for 2008.

What's going to stand in his way? The New Republic magazine ran a lengthy profile of Sen Allen in May 2006 alleging that he was all but obsessed as a young man with the Confederate flag - a still-controversial symbol which many Americans associate with racism. He is also facing a tougher-than-expected re-election campaign, distracting him from national ambitions at a time when opponents are laying the groundwork for White House bids.

Did you know? Sen Allen's father was a legendary American football coach also named George Allen, and his son often incorporates sports metaphors into his speeches.

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I honestly think that's race right there

GEORGE ALLEN
Who is he? Rock-solid conservative senator from Virginia, a state he governed from 1994 to 1998.

Oh yea, proposing an official Congressional apology for slavery is a "Rock-solid conservative" stance.