Calling it Jean Chrétien's day, Liberal leadership hopefuls publicly brushed aside questions on their aspirations, even though the race appears under way.

Former finance minister Paul Martin is the recognized front-runner.

Paul Martin
Paul Martin

While he has solid support in his campaign to replace Chrétien, the timing could pose a problem.

In 18 months Martin will be 65, and facing a new generation of opposition party leaders, Stephen Harper heads the Canadian Alliance and both the Progressive Conservatives and New Democrats are getting ready to choose new leaders.

The lengthy period also gives cabinet ministers mulling over a shot at the top job ample time to organize campaigns.

John Manley (file photo)
John Manley (file photo)

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister John Manley has said he wants to be prime minister. But on Wednesday, the high-profile cabinet minister left the spotlight on Chrétien.

"I think as we get closer to the point in time, the party will set up a process and those that are interested will go forward, but we'll see," said Manley.

He told CBC Newsworld he's "months" away from making any decision on the matter, and will be consulting with his family.

Two other high-profile cabinet ministers believed to be considering a run are Heritage Minister Sheila Copps and Industry Minister Allan Rock.

Both have their eyes on the prize, but turned aside leadership questions saying the day belonged to the prime minister.

The former premier of New Brunswick, Frank McKenna, has also been mentioned as a potential candidate.

And Justice Minister Martin Cauchon said many new candidates could still appear.

"It gives time for a lot of people to get prepared, to get organized," said Cauchon.