2009 Governor's Race Will Be State's Litmus Test

But Allen also would have to find a way to reconnect with voters in Northern Virginia, which he lost to Webb by 160,000 votes.

Many newcomers in rapidly changing and diversifying Northern Virginia don't remember when Allen was governor. Their first impressions are from last year's Senate race.

By nominating Allen, Republicans also would run the risk of guaranteeing that the Democratic base, as well as party money from across the country, is energized to try to thwart his effort at a political comeback.

Just a few years ago, the state's base of Democratic votes wasn't large enough to make Republicans feel threatened. But as the Nov. 6 election showed, there are signs that base is now more of an electoral force because Democratic leaders have spent years identifying new supporters.

Allen also would be campaigning under intense scrutiny. Even if he could shake all the rumors and innuendos that surrounded him in 2006, liberal bloggers would always be on the lookout for his next misstep.

Some Republicans wonder whether an Allen candidacy would be worth the risks, so they are hoping for an alternative.

If Allen runs, it's unclear whether Bolling would get into the race. McDonnell, however, says he is running either way because he believes he is the most electable candidate.

McDonnell grew up in Fairfax County but raised his family in Virginia Beach, which his advisers say gives him an advantage in the two regions where Republicans have been losing ground.

McDonnell could become the state's first Catholic Republican governor. He also had a 20-year Army career, which could help him with the state's large veteran population.

"If you were creating a statewide standard-bearer, those are probably the traits you want to include," said J. Tucker Martin, a McDonnell spokesman.

McDonnell, who might find it hard to raise money if Allen is in the race, would still have to overcome several challenges in a general election.

He holds the same conservative views on social issues that have cost Republican candidates votes in Northern Virginia. He also played a key role in getting House and Senate Republicans to agree on this year's transportation bill, which included the controversial fees on bad drivers.