Siegelman (Gov-D-AL) has to run for re-election in 2002. He could get beat by the right candidate-- AL was 56-42 Bush in 2000 and 50-43 Dole in 1996. He is out as Pres candidate and might lose Gov. as well.
I am not saying you are wrong that Barnes might be the Dem Prez nominee in 2004 when all said and done. BUT if so, it will be as the sacrificial lamb. Plus, he's got to run for Governor again in 2004 and might not be able to handle both duties. Do the DEMs want to give up GA governorship?
No Republican has EVER been ELECTED Georgia Governor. They had one or two Republicans appointed to the job during reconstruction and that's it. Although the state leans conservative and elects many Republicans to LOCAL offices, the Democrats control STATEWIDE Georgia politics with an iron-fist and have done so for decades. Barnes running for President is no more risky than Carter and they know this.