Taking stock of the GOP field after Sarah Palin's exit.

From The Wall Street Journal:

Ms. Palin's resignation comes as the once-populous Republican field has been narrowed in recent weeks by a series of events, including separate admissions by a Republican senator and a governor of having engaged in extramarital affairs. Both South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford and Sen. John Ensign of Nevada were seen as possible contenders in 2012.

Another potential candidate, former Utah Gov. John Huntsman, has accepted a post as President Barack Obama's ambassador to China. Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, often mentioned as a possible candidate, saw his star fall after a widely criticized national television appearance to deliver the GOP response to Mr. Obama's first congressional address earlier this year.

For now, that leaves former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, who ran unsuccessfully in 2008, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty as top candidates. Another senator, John Thune of South Dakota, has been mentioned as a potential candidate. And former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, who also ran in 2008 and attracts support from social conservatives, may make another go.