The top political lieutenant to Rudy Giuliani is being mentioned by some Republicans as a possible replacement for state GOP Chairman Joe Mondello, who’s been the target of criticism over the party’s dwindling fortunes in the past year.

Anthony Carbonetti, who was senior strategist for Giuliani’s failed presidential bid, has been suggested as a possible replacement, a move seen by some as a sign that Giuliani is making a play for the future – including a possible run for governor.

The news comes at a time when Mayor Bloomberg – who has conducted polling on a possible gubernatorial run – and former Gov. George Pataki are reportedly eyeing retiring upstate GOP Rep. Tom Reynolds to lead the party.

Bloomberg, although now an independent, is still a major contributor to the state Senate’s GOP members. Reynolds has reportedly said he’s not interested in the job.

Carbonetti declined comment.

Mondello, who has had rough patches with both Giuliani and Pataki but has the strong support of Senate Majority Leader Joe Bruno, has come under fire, especially as the party recently lost two state Senate seats and has been seen as lackluster.

A GOP source suggested Giuliani pushed for Carbonetti, but several others disputed that.

Another top Giuliani adviser, Matt Mahoney, recently took the helm of the state GOP Senate committee.

Party spokesman Matt Walter said, “Chairman Mondello has dedicated his life to advancing the Republican Party . . . He is looking forward to leading the [party] into the elections this fall.”

Source: NY Post