New Faces: 8 Keys to the Campaign

NEXT: Iraq»

8. NEW FACES

HOW CAN YOU TELL A BROWNBACK FROM A VILSACK?

Only a few candidates are famous. The rest are known mostly in their universes—the Senate or Arkansas, say—or as perennial protest candidates. Here's a primer on the faces you might not recognize in the crowd.

SAM BROWNBACK
A standard-bearer of the social right—with a twist. He speaks out against poverty, the genocide in Darfur and the war in Iraq

MIKE HUCKABEE
The socially conservative ex-Governor of Arkansas lost more than 100 lbs. while in office. His story of fitness redemption may resonate with voters

DUNCAN HUNTER
A boutique candidate for lovers of military hardware and a pro-Bush foreign policy, the Congressman (R.-Calif.) has ties to bribe-taking Duke Cunningham

TOM TANCREDO
The Colorado Rep's big issue, border control, inspires base G.O.P. voters. He has sponsored legislation punishing Sudan for its war in Darfur

TOMMY THOMPSON
The former Wisconsin G.O.P. Governor made a name in welfare reform in the '90s. He's pushing a plan to split Iraq into three separate states

DENNIS KUCINICH
Yes, it still rhymes with "spinach." His antiwar stance, looking better now than in '04, has drawn backers among House colleagues in both parties

CHRISTOPHER DODD
The affable Democrat is popular in the Senate. Fluent in Spanish, he's an expert on Latin America and is strong on children's issues

TOM VILSACK
Inexperienced in foreign affairs, he's a likable self-made man. His hopes ride on his record as Iowa's Governor and a champion of ethanol fuel

NEXT: Iraq»