Number two, Guiliani. He is pro abort and therefore cannot be nominated without literally splitting the party in twain.
Number three, Frist, upon sober evaluation, the obvious front runner.
There's no way I'd ever opt for McCain. Forgot about what a self-serving, repugnant elitist he is--he's a Senator with no executive experience. Historically, Senators are virtually assured losers in Presidential elections. That would rule out Frist, Allen, and Hagel, too. After watching Kerry and Dole go down the tubes in the last decade, let's not make that mistake again. Let the 'Rats make it.
If Giuliani could be persuaded to have a epiphany on abortion soon, he'd make a good choice. He's a well known and well respected executive. Not surprisingly, Hillary is by far the front runner on TradeSport's 'Rat side of the ledger at $0.500. Giuliani would deprive her of the big chunk of electoral votes in NY.
I must admit to not knowing Owens, and I'm not impressed with Pataki. Powell is far too liberal for me. At this time I would feel comfy with either Bush, Romney, Ridge, Rice, or Thompson. My first choice amongst these is Rice.