US Attorney Michael Sullivan

Chance of running: Unclear, and he has declined to comment.

Pro: As a Republican appointee, he is likely to lose his position once a Democratic presidency takes office. He served three terms as a state representative before becoming district attorney of Plymouth County. He has also been investigating lucrative contracts pushed by House Speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi, which could be a plus or a minus.

Con: By design, his current work is done quietly and only results in brief spurts of publicity. He would also have to raise money quickly.