With the strong likelihood Pataki won't run again for governor, the paper said that "several party elders have become preoccupied lately with preparing a Plan B. The names most mentioned are those of former Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani and current Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, but neither man is expected to run."

New York magazine also reports this week that Mr. Weld is a focus of interest by party operatives who "have approached him and asked him to consider a statewide race."

Republican Party officials denied the speculation and Weld was unavailable for comment.

The paper suggested there is reason to suspect Weld is considering options.

"In recent months, he has talked to several New York Republicans about a possible campaign in 2006 or beyond, however, according to several who have talked to him," the Times said, adding, "They described the conversations as casual."

Weld, a fiscal conservative who is also socially liberal on issues like abortion, may be the type of GOP candidate considered electable in the liberal Empire State.

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