George Pataki, former Governor of New York

George Pataki, New York’s former governor did not seek a fourth term as Governor in 2006. Pataki has held meetings with his advisors and has quietly indicated to Republican leaders that he’s very interested in the Republican nomination. Pataki’s unfavorability rating was slightly higher than his favorable rating when he decided not to seek reelection, leading some to speculate that his decision was to avoid being defeated by Democratic Nominee and his successor Eliot Spitzer. Because Pataki is not as well known nationally as former New York Mayor and current presidential candidate Rudy Giuliani, and due to his moderate views on some social issues, he may have conflicts winning the nomination.