North Carolina (Republican-controlled): There's not much reliable polling on this race but Sen. Richard Burr (R) sure is acting nervous. His decision to release fragments of his internal polling the poll was not, in fact, released by Burr's campaign -- including a head to head matchup against Secretary of State Elaine Marshall (D) who has given only the vaguest hints of a candidacy -- seems like an odd move. Democrats, however, still don't have a candidate although Rep. Mike McIntyre appears in interested and would give the party a credible alternative. (Previous ranking: 10) Source: Washington Post, The Fix

Senator Richard Burr is proceeding like any incumbent who is serious about wanting to be re-elected.  He is running scared and actively seeking a network of support throughtou the state.  Burr learned from the 2008 election cycle and the mistakes of former Senator Elizabeth Dole. 

This Senate race is strikingly similar as Democrats struggle to find a candidate.  The big difference from 2008 is that Burr appears more interested in local developments across the Tar Heel state which will serve him well come 2010.

In my heart, I would like to write this seat as is in play, but my political gut tells me Burr holds the advantage.  I rate this seat as safe Republican because Burr will not make the same mistakes as Dole in 2008.  He is a seasoned politico and will have a better organization to campaign for him as the cycle continues. 

Until Democrats officially announce their intentions and the party nominates a candidate, it is extremely difficult to handicap this race.  I will update as this election cycle develops.