GOP's rising stars point to future

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By Sean Lengell

When Virginia Rep. Eric Cantor addressed an audience at the Republican National Convention four years ago, the setting was a midafternoon ice cream reception - and he wasn't even the main speaker.

When Sen. John Thune took the podium at the 2004 Republican convention, the South Dakotan, who was out of politics and running against powerful Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle, was limited to a 10-sentence minispeech.

Four years later, these young, charismatic lawmakers - both of whom had been mentioned as possible running mates for Republican nominee Sen. John McCain - are among a new crop of party up-and-comers expected to play prominent party roles in the future, starting with the national convention, which starts Monday in St. Paul.

"Our ranks are ripe with rising stars," said Republican National Committee spokesman Alex Conant. "Anyone looking at the Republican Party's long-term prospects should be encouraged that we have so many young leaders who have already accomplished more" than Democratic nominee Sen. Barack Obama.

Mr. Cantor, 45, has risen steadily through the party's ranks since he was first elected to Congress in 2000. He has aggressively attacked Democratic leaders and has been a staunch defender of the Bush administration, and his loyalty and ambition were rewarded in 2002 when he was chosen as House Republican chief deputy whip.

The Virginian, the only Jewish Republican in the House, has used his leadership position to increase his profile on Capitol Hill since his party lost control of the chamber to Democrats in January 2007. He is a frequent guest on television news shows and is considered a front-runner to replace Rep. John A. Boehner of Ohio one day as House party leader.

"Eric Cantor´s leadership skills have rightfully earned him an immense amount of respect not only from Republicans on Capitol Hill, but also from the political pundit class, who see him as a potential Senate, gubernatorial or even vice-presidential candidate," said Ken Spain, spokesman with the National Republican Congressional Committee.

Instant hero

Mr. Thune, 47, became an instant hero among conservatives in November 2004 when he knocked off Mr. Daschle.

With his rangy stature, good looks and friendly, articulate demeanor, Mr. Thune is viewed as a natural choice for future party leadership positions.