Even though Mayor Anthony Williams will decided within the next month whether to seek a third term in advance of the 2006 city elections, a number of others have been exploring the possibility of running, even if the bow-tied Williams opts to run again. The Post takes a look at the exploratory efforts, who may run, and why Williams may be vulnerable if he runs again.

American University professor James Raskin tells the Post that the city council upsets this past cycle that swept a number of incumbents out of office may be a signal that the city wants change. And the mayor's potential challengers "clearly perceive some weakness in Williams's armor."

Ward 5 Councilmember Vincent Orange, Ward 4 Councilmember Adrian Fenty, Council Chairman Linda Cropp, former Verizon president Marie Johns, lawyer Michael Brown (son of the late Commerce secretary Ron Brown) and lawyer A. Scott Bolden (the recently defeated D.C. Democratic Party leader) are all considering races. At-Large Councilmember David Catania says he plans to run as an Independent if Williams secures the Democratic nomination. And Cropp may hold the advantage to secure the frontrunner position.