Gephardt, for example, does not lack for exposure as the leader of House Democrats. But some aides say they worry his need to hew to a public message that will please his House caucus will complicate efforts to establish an independent profile. Lieberman had not been considered a presidential candidate until Gore tapped him as his running mate last year. Kerry, Edwards and Bayh were on Gore's short list. Senate aides said there has seemed to be obvious competition all year between Lieberman and Kerry over who can be seen as more aggressive on environmental issues.
Competition takes other less obvious forms.
But the more important race, already underway, is the competition in informally recruiting potential aides. If Gore runs again, many on his 2000 team must decide whether to return to his fold or follow other loyalties. Gore consultant Robert Shrum, for example, also has worked for Edwards and Kerry. Michael Whouley, a highly regarded Gore organizer, has been wooed by several likely candidates, Democratic sources said. The scramble is beginning unusually early.