We need to quit believing the " Powell is some misunderstood outcast" crap the media is feeding us. Powell is a General and a warrior. He also is the good cop. Hey, everyone wants to kiss his ass, he could be pres in 08, and he has the Cheyney-like ability to be calm and cool while still cutting you up.
Cheyney 1st, Powell if Cheyney cant. Remember, Bush picked Cheyney because he is good, not to win Wyoming or the mountain states. Thats why Bush picks all his cabinet.
However, if his health is going to pose a problem, then other alternatives have to be considered - including both Powell( doubt that he would want it ) and Ridge. Both of these are problematical for obvious reasons - let's just hope Cheny stays healthy & get him on the trail as soon as possible.
Now, if you're looking for a slot for Rudy - if, for some reason Ashcroft had to resign ( family issues, health issues only -), Rudy as Attorney General might be something open to debate.
If New York is even in the loop this time around, the Dems are in big trouble. If New jersey is even remotely on the horizon, the Dems are in big trouble ( McGreevy approval ratings are approaching the 20's....he's been at an all time low for the past year - and it keeps going down- he also made a big show of endorsing Dean - teeeheeeteeeheee). If Ahnold can turn the tide in California - it's over......don't think the dems aren't sweating big time about these three states.