As predicted earlier today, Fred Thompson is dropping out of the Republican race -- but sadly, his spot at Law & Order has already been filled by Sam Waterston, whose own foray into politics for Unity '08 has been less than overwhelming.

Too bad, because several other L&O cast-mates would make great candidates. Here's how the potential Rerunning Mates rated last spring. -- Patricia Calhoun

• Politics
• The Elephant Walk