Whitman has been sounding out Republican leaders about running in 2010 when Arnold Schwarzenegger's final term in Sacramento expires, the Times reported Friday.

"Whitman has the potential to be a very strong candidate," former Republican consultant Dan Schnur said. "She brings very strong private sector experience to the table, and her involvement in politics gives her a potential base of support as well."

Whitman did not speak to the Times, however, the newspaper said her inquiries have been focused on specifics such as campaign logistics.

The newspaper also noted that Whitman has been getting her feet wet raising money for former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney's presidential campaign.