Republicans
Rand Paul: Sen of Kentucky, son of Ron Paul. Has cross party appeal with stances against drug laws, drones, and NSA. Bit of embellisher of the facts. As with Ron Paul, should do fine in Republican debates as long as he stays far away from foreign policy questions.
Chris Christie: Gov of New Jersey. Likely the President of the United States before the Bridge-gate fiasco. Strong personality and every-man qualities. Chances are still there that he overcomes the scandal, as there isn’t any proof that he had anything to do with it, but it’s a tough sell. Has to answer, “If you can’t control your staff as Governor, how would you maintain control as President”.
Jeb Bush: Former Gov of Florida. Son of George H.W. and Brother of George W. Has all qualities and the resume of a strong Presidential candidate. Biggest limitation is his last name, although it would probably be minimal in the primary. Supported the immigration reform bill that the Senate passed. Having a Hispanic wife and children won’t hurt his party trying to court minorities. If the election becomes Bush vs Clinton you might see many more moderates than usual throw their vote away on third party candidates.
Marco Rubio: Sen of Florida. Great personality and look. Told an inaccurate portrayal of his family history he had to backtrack on. Had a panned performance on a Republican response. Might have fatality wounded his chances, because he actually wanted to do something in congress. Helped pass immigration reform in the Senate, whereupon the House refused to vote on it, and Conservatives bashed him for supporting “amnesty”. He eventually McCain’d himself away from it.
Paul Ryan: Rep of Wisconsin. Former VP pick. Dull personality. Caught up in lies going from his tax cut plans for the rich, to his marathon times. Got beaten to a pulp by Joe Biden in a debate.
Rick Perry: Gov of Texas. Failed Presidential candidate in 2012. Portrayed as dumb. Awful in the debates, but a part of that might have been because he was drugged up on pain killers.
Rick Santorum: Former Sen of Pennsylvania. 2nd place in 2012 Republican primary. Would be the nominee if going by “next man up”. Social conservatism to the max, and not much else.
Mike Huckabee: Former Gov of Arkansas. Ran in 2008. Very likable. Folksy speech and demeanor. Social conservative but throws some fiscal ideas out there as well. Granted clemency to a convicted rapist, who later killed two people.
Ted Cruz: Sen of Texas. Ultimate “look-at-me” politician. Highly educated. Probably the most highly polarizing candidate that could run for the Republicans.