How vulnerable is Sen. Richard Burr?

An article in Real Clear Politics this morning says that by a number of measures the Winston-Salem Republican "could be the most vulnerable Republican incumbent in the country."

But Wake Forest University political science professor John Dinan notes several advantages: He is likable, does not have the problems of Sen. Elizabeth Dole and faces no top-tier Democratic challenger.

"There are no apparent ways in which Burr has rendered himself vulnerable in his first four years," said Dinan. "Unlike Dole, who was vulnerable because of not spending time in the state and not seen as working hard enough to represent North Carolina interests, Burr has no concerns on either of these counts. His main concern is that his name recognition isn't yet as high outside of the Piedmont area as an incumbent would prefer."

The articles adds that Burr's recent efforts to block FDA regulation of tobacco and propose a Republican alternative to health care reform should raise his visibility.