Former Senate Majority Leader Howard Baker (R-Tenn.) is contacting powerbrokers in the Republican Party to build support for a 2008 presidential campaign by his one-time protege, former Sen. Fred Thompson (R-Tenn.).

Baker, who Wednesday made a visit to the Senate, was asked by several Republicans about his involvement on Thompson's behalf.

"He said, 'I am making a few calls and I think it's a great idea,'" said one Senate Republican who heard Baker discuss his efforts to advance Thompson's prospects.

One Republican who discussed a possible bid with Thompson described his interest and Baker's queries as "a friendly exploration."

...Rumors about Thompson running for president have filtered into Republican circles during the last several weeks. One lobbyist who recently asked Thompson about his plans said that Thompson merely smiled and replied, "I'm keeping my powder dry."